Thank you all for your replies. I hope this message is being received by all that commented on my "newbie" post. I am still learning the site.
Ortwin, I use a two stage vacuum pump sold by Viot. However, I am seeing what appears to be the same pump being sold elsewhere, even by Harbor Freight under their name. The advantage of this pump is high vacuum, 29" Hg under optimum conditions. Disadvantage is low flow capacity, there must be no leaks anywhere. Usually I get 28.5" Hg consistent during run.
Texture, on my "medium" size lathe I started with very hard and dense wood like Jatoba. These were about 6" (150mm) diameter. I first drill the stem hole (3/8", 10 mm) and use a brass shaft. I use the shaft held in the lathe chuck to turn the top to desired shape. I have recently turned aluminum, it is soft enough to turn (carefully and slowly) on a wood lathe. Also can turn brass.
Jeremy, Yes I contemplate all six of your discussion topics. But I scratch my head on your #5.
Mailman: Yes, I will post videos and charts, will wait until I am more comfortable with the website.
Joah: Thanks for the smile!
Earl of Whirl: Yes, I also would like to know more about all of you, not just tops. About me: I will be 80 y/o in a few months but not acting my age. I am a bit obssssive, but do not have the patience of Iacopo. Here we are experiencing less smoke than last couple years. Where we live (Olympia) much hotter and drier this year.
