iTopSpin
Current Posts => Collecting, Modding, Turning and Spin Science => Topic started by: cecil on March 13, 2016, 09:06:14 PM
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I am trying to make my 10 inch top. This is a lot of work. About 110 pieces. It's about seven pounds. I hope it all cleans up.
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Wow! Great project Cecil! The 10" makers club is very exclusive! 8)
I you shave 1.5 pounds you'll be at the weight of Figaro
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Damns! That's a buncha of miter saw action there. Enclosed crown, eh?
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Yes I'm lucky to still have all my fingers. As a Machinist I know that there is nothing more dangerous than a saw. I still don't know what size bearings I should use. Anyone have any suggestion's? And I'm hoping for 10 3/8 dia. and at no more than 4 pounds.
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WOW that's gonna be a cool top. Very jealous of the size you can work in. I wish my medium could be effective at that size.
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Please let us know if it spins, and if it does, tell the kitty cats to run because it well destroy anything in its way l.o.l.
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Keep us abreast of your progress.
Cant wait to see when
it is finished !
RFC
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Looking good. I cannot wait to see your results.
It is good to use a skateboard bearings for this size top. (about an inch diameter I believe)
Have fun!
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hello Cecil
what a tremendous project !
about the bearing size , standard skate bearings should do the job
8mm core, 22mm outer diameter and 7mm width
2 bearings may be like Maurizio does, and a long shaft
wish you the best for the final shavings
jim
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Bearings? We don't need no stinkin' Bearings!
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Bearings? We don't need no stinkin' Bearings!
Well, if this top is for you and not your grandson and you want to spin it for a while, I would recommend the bearings. I very seldom feel like I want to go through the exertion of spinning Figaro with the tip fixed. ::)
As others said, two roller-blade/skate-board bearings is the way to go.
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I think the bearing proponents are well represented here ta0, no need to refute my silly principles. :P
I can only think of two others that would maybe agree with me on this anyway.
I can't help it though... why spend all that time to weaken the top and limit it's trick-ability? Also, roll staring a big top is far, far easier and safer than a boomerang. Once you learn both of course. In this case, a Columbian style top I presume, yeah go ahead and stick a pair in that sucker.
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I'm really getting tired of all the glueing. I think the wood is pine but after a trip to Home Depot, I think it's common wood. I bought it because it was $ 1.29 for eight ft. I'm going cheap because this is all new to me and I don't care to destroy expencive wood . A top like this would be around # 125.00 black walnut wood. I spent about $ 18.00 max. But I am having FUN.
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Glad you are having fun. That is what it is all about! The pictures sure look cool.
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Two halfs are glued up, now for the Bridgeport to put plugs in then the lathe. It's 7pounds 8 ounces. I'm hopeing for 3 1/2 pounds at 10.1/4 dia. With 3/8 walls.
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thanx for sharing the various steps
I hope the final cuts will work OK
SHAVING SAFARI , CALIFORNIA DREAMIN 8) 8)
jim
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That looks like LOT of work! But it will eventually give you a lot of fun!
I bet it stays above 4 lb . . . ::)
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Although I know that a Bridgeport is some sort of machine, I don't understand the reference to it and "plugs". Could you explain, please, Cecil? Not all of us are machinists.... ;)
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A bridgeport is a vertical milling and boring machine. You tube will show you how they work. I'm going to turn down plugs to go in the top and bottom of spin top. They look like a stove top hat. This way I can have something to hold on to in the lathe. Tao, have you seen how they make a lamp shade out of wood? I think a good wood turner can make this top at 1 1/2 pounds. These boys know what they are doing.
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Any updates ?
RFC
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I want to make the BEST tops in the world. And I'm running out of time. The best top at the chirpiest price, and make a lot of people happy.
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Are there any updates on your progress, Cecil? I'm anxious to see how you're coming along....
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Are there any updates on your progress, Cecil? I'm anxious to see how you're coming along....
here here!!!!
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Me Too !
RFC
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salut CECIL
your fan club is starving ...;AARRRGGGHHH!!
jim
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I am retired and POOR. I just went back to work part time. The shop my son works at is just down the street. I've almost finished the inside, I will post some pictures this weekend. I wish we all lived in the same town, we would be in heaven. Top people are the BEST people.
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I finished the inside of my big top last nite. Then I made two tips and one big one for the big top. I will try to glue them together where I can start on the outside next week. Six tips are tool steal and the big one - 1.0 inch diamenter is 416 stainless. Yeah I went to work and the old dog fired this old dog. LIFE IS GREAT. Back to making tops again.
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The inside looks great and so does the tip! 8)
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Looks great, Cecil! I can't wait to see what happens next....
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Wow !
Looking good.
That's a lot of work.
What are you going to
do for a finish ?
RFC
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First prestain - Cabernet stain - polyurethane - last spray deft clear gloss. That's if I don't scrap it doing the outside. I'm making the top for a straight tip, and be able to change over to a bearing. I would like to see this top do a stairway to heaven and a 20 foot wire walker. And this is to much work. But when your retired you have the time. No money but Lot's of time.
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this is how excited i am to see the progress of this top and those epic tips @-@
https://media.giphy.com/media/UHCL4xtAmHH4k/giphy.gif[/img]
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I LOVE crazy.
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I was able to rough the outside last night. Top is at 3 1/4 pounds.
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Looking great! Congratulations!
I would say that 3 1/4 lb is pretty good.
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Looking great Cecil !
I cant wait to see the
finished product ;D ;D
RFC
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I was able to rough the outside last nite. Top is at 3 1/4 pounds.
http://static1.fjcdn.com/thumbnails/comments/4614224+_806965e96e3a60c98f257d51202d8536.gif
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Beautiful, Cecil! In fact, it's so pretty that I think I'd be afraid to throw it.
I can't wait to see the progress, as it happens!
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That is one Nice Top. I wish I had a place to try making tops.
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That is one Nice Top. I wish I had a place to try making tops.
my good man.......... you do.........it is called............the kitchen floor @-@
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I was going to City College taking machine shop, when I finished my projects they let me make wood tops. I took one class that was three months long and made nine tops. The cost of the class - parking and gas was about $300.00 to me it was worth it. Now I go to the shop my son works at and they let me use the lathe and mill. (SOMETIMES). I live in a condo and there is no room in the garage. I would put a lathe in the back yard but it would be to much noise for the neighbors. So I don't have a lathe but I've made a lot of tops. SEEK and YE shall find.
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Well I think the outside is finished now. I hope. Still have to cut ends off make delrin washers and delrin rod to pull tip in. At this picture top is 2.9 pounds, 13/32 (.406) wall thickness and is 10 1/2 diamenter.
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Wow. Nice looking top. 10" doesn't sound so big, but when you see it next to a jumbo size top it becomes clear that it is huge!
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PLEASE tell me that there will be video of the first throws of this beauty! I'm dying to see this thing spin, and would hate to think that anything might happen to it before it gets filmed....
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very pretty love to have it
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I'm making it for a straight tip first. I'm hoping for a stair way to heaven and wire walkers, maybe a 20 foot wire walker. I can dream. If I'm not happy with it I will put bearings in. I would like have a video of my first attempt with the MORNING WOOD. This top has taken a lot of ours to make. I'm hoping that making it segmented and lite will make it stronger and faster, for the double body corkscrew. It's nice to have dreams.
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Well I think the outside is finished now. I hope. Still have to cut ends off make delrin washers and delrin rod to pull tip in. At this picture top is 2.9 pounds, 13/32 (.406) wall thickness and is 10 1/2 diamenter.
im currently on a no meme trial period........... so imagine me saying "sweeeeeet" ;)
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New friends and sharing spin tops.
https://youtu.be/lN-J--Brqx0
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So much fun to make new friends and share tops.
https://youtu.be/waKuYD5uZoY
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Hoping to see your 10 inch top spinning. Nice videos with them two young fellows.
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I can only work on tops when my son let's me come into the shop. Which is about four hours a week. If I had a good lathe in the back yard I could really make a lot of tops, to sell. I'm retired and have the time to do it.
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Teaching the young is great , wish all could do , good man you are .
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So much fun to make new friends and share tops.
bravo on that trapeze, looks like ur a long line master now :o
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Great work promoting tops, Cecil! And great fun!
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I had to take more off the side and cut the ends. Hope I don't have to mount the top in the lathe again. Now to stain it and then start throwing. If it's out of balance I will drill a hole for the lead.
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Great job, Cecil! Don't forget to video your first throws. I'm sure I'm not the only one who would enjoy seeing them....
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When you stain it, it will look gorgeous!
On the photo it looks to me that that tip may be a little undersized for the top. I would prefer it a little larger.
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super good-looking KEYBOARD :)
long shaft ! me likes //// !
jim
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Tao, the tip is stainless steal it is 1.0 diamenter. I have a delrin tip for the long wire walker, it's diamenter is 1 7/16 with a .700 neck. A 1 1/2 steal tip is heavy, so I'm still working on everything on this top. I plan on doing a lot of different things to this top. I would like double body cork screws and a 135 foot wire walker. I've used an aluminum tip in the past and found out that it picks up dents that will cut your hand up.
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Tao, the tip is stainless steal it is 1.0 diamenter.
Oh! It looked smaller on the photo. What is the size of the neck?
Having swap-able tips is a great feature of your design.
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The neck is .200 diamenter. I was going to stain and test top out this weekend, but it's been raining. I've never had good luck with painting in the rain so I'm not going to chance it. The paint stays soft? Now I'm thinking of two different stains using frog tape.
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Meet ROSIE. Two coats of prestain - two light coats of stain followed by one heavy coat of stain - so far.
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Looks great I use Bulls eye brand shellac on my projects might want to try it , really shines the best
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rich color, lookin' slick
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Wonderful top! Congratulations!
Rossie is a good name.
I look forward to trying it her one day.
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Meet ROSSIE. Two coats of prestain - two light coats of stain followed by one heavy coat of stain - so far.
that is the most beutiful thing ive seen in a long while @-@
well done
how much more to go before shes operational???
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I hope I have her up this weekend. First is to check balance. And then what she will do. I'm hoping she plays like a SPINTASTIC with a BIG C TIP. Hopefully some of you PRO'S out there will show me what she can really do. Anyone coming to the bay area call me.
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good looking girl! ROSSIE !
can't wait to see her dance :)
jim
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Maybe this weekend. I hope she doesn't have two left feet.
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These are a couple of 3 3/4 diamenter tops I'm also working on. They have been made to play on large Spintastic line. To me this is the best line. If you could get the same line a little bigger you could play four inch tops on it. This is left over spalted wood mixed with black walnut. The spalted had a lot of worm holes in it, so I had to use CA and spalted chip dust to fill. Something to do while Rossie, is drying.
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Cecil,
You are a busy Boy !
RFC
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These are a couple of 3 3/4 diamenter tops I'm also working on. They have been made to play on large Spintastic line. To me this is the best line. If you could get the same line a little bigger you could play four inch tops on it. This is left over spalted wood mixed with black walnut. The spalted had a lot of worm holes in it, so I had to use CA and spalted chip dust to fill. Something to do while Rossie, is drying.
my spirit animal must be a beaver......cus those look delicious @-@
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These two tops were a nightmare to work on. Beaver holes everywhere. I am trying to save the Pisces of spalted would I had left over. A one inch piece fell off bottom and I replaced it with black walnut.
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ROSARITA, 10 1/2 diamenter - 3 pounds - stright tip. Tommrow is the big day. Segmented Pine, 125 pieces. Hopes = Glued pieces make her a strong top. Will do all the basic tricks. Stairway to Heaven - Wire Walkers, and LONG LIFE.
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Cecil,
Best wishes for a super good day. I think I speak for the group when I say I look forward to the report and the photos.
Kirk
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Good luck and may Rossie indeed have a long life!
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Wishing Rossie a great day in her presentation in society. She looks gorgeous!
You should be proud!
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Amazing top Cecil, well done!
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Thank You. Thanks to all of us. We have a GREAT HOBBY.
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It was a wonderful journey watching
this top come to life from your 1st post
to your current post . Every time you made
a post I couldn't wait to see it !
If it plays 1/2 as good as it looks you will
have a real winner ;D ;D ;D
RFC
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Rossie, 10 1/2 diamenter - 3 pounds - stright tip. Tommrow is the big day. Segmented Pine, 125 pieces. Hopes = Glued pieces make her a strong top. Will do all the basic tricks. Stairway to Heaven - Wire Walkers, and LONG LIFE.
holy hell cecil!!! your a sneaky cookie that thing is massive!!!! looks amazing. cant wait to see vid of that thing spnning :o
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This was not an easy day. I tried lots of different lines none of them worked. 3/16 - 5/32 - and 1/4 top would not work. Justin, had the same result. I thought it must be the tip. I had a great day with the family and had a lot of fun. My Grandson said he will try it again when I get things worked out. On the way home I stop-ed at O.S.H store and bought 3/8 line and 1/2 line. So I ran over to the park at night by myself to see if the line would work. Out of four trys the 3/8 line worket once. Got it to the hand. Six trys with the 1/2 inch and it worked four times. I'm getting there. Ten inch tops are in a different world. When it does land in your hand I go into shock. So I'm very pleased the top was spinning in my hand for a long time and it looks like I don't have to balance it. It looks like if I want to do the basic tricks I'm going to have to use two different lines. How thick of a line do these big tops like?
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Pictures are of my Grandson, and Daughter.
https://youtu.be/utBop60HdpM
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The AGONY of DEFEAT.
https://youtu.be/jyBsL7CY-kI
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Some people just don't give up.
https://youtu.be/PKCPkLUMC_4
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Last video of me falling on my face. And after buying new thick line I made it five times and no Video's. Life can be a BITCH. No matter how hard you pray.
https://youtu.be/1jYwrpMzHP0
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Almost? Almost knocked my head off.
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How thick of a line do these big tops like?
Cecil,
I am no expert on this topic. I do remember that JohnM's top named Charlie Brown had really fat line.
In the photo here you can see the line compared to my right ring finger. I measured my finger as 3/4" at the small knuckle.
http://www.ta0.com/forum/index.php/topic,3299.0.html
Also you can see the huge string opening in the tip.
To better days
Kirk
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Cecil, I have only had the opportunity to throw a top that large one time, in Miamisburg. What I learned is that they are counter-intuitive. Because of the size, they make you think you have to throw them hard.
Actually, the opposite seems to be true. I had no success until I heeded the advice I was being given, and let off on the power. It finally started working for me when I was able to just release the top (with hardly any "throw"), let it roll out the line, and then do my pull back. The PULL requires some force, but the throw does not.
Does that make sense? I can tell from the videos that you are launching Rossie pretty hard....
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Both Kirk and mailman are spot on. That line was too thin and you are putting too much force on the throw part. It should be more like rolling it out. You actually start pulling back from the start, smoothly. You'll get it in no time. The fact that you did eventually get it on your hand and it spun well proves that you have a winner. Congratulations!
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Awesome work.....looks beautiful!
Thicker shorter rope, and a smooth pull is about the only thing I have found that has worked for my bigtop experience.
Good luck!
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I think all of you are correct. I'm going to work on a smooth throw with the 1/2 rope. No matter what big, tops wear me out fast.
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The line is 12 feet when I go to 10 feet it's a lot easier. If this top was bearing and throwing at 8 foot line every thing would work better. The problem I'm having is still to long of a line for my age. My grandson is 20 and has an arm. I want to see what he can do with it. I still want a top that can do long wire walkers and a stair way to heaven. And the next problem is my Grandson loves BEARING TOPS.
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https://youtu.be/Af1QkORpFVg
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i loved it!!! i loved it!!! that thing is awsome, the size good grief, looks like it had a go at your head there eh ;D
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Thanks Jack. This top needs some one young with power. Can't waite for you to throw it.
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Great boomerang! Congrats! :)
"If your Tops don't scare you, they are not big enough" - Cecil
I think this IS big enough! >:D
PS: Mike, is that phrase on the Hall of Fame already?
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FAN-DAMN-TASTIC !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WOW
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Beautiful!
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Your persistence is noteworthy. "Some people just don't give up" is a phrase that should be in the hall of fame along with "If your tops don't scare you they are not big enough." Good job on the boomerang and the tricks but, honestly, I was scared when it almost hit you in the face!
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YIPPIE !!!!!
you Da man
RFC
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Cecil !! SUPER BRAVO !!
YOU'RE one hell of a player-maker-performer
at the level of Joe Mauk !
keep spinning
there's nothing better than outdoors spots
about the throw i would have said the same as other players:
for large tops the "secret" is to let it unwind smoothly
and to skip tangles : to have the knot way past the maximum diameter
about your suggestion to change string : i've done it for a long time with big tops..the changing costs a bit of spin time but it is worth it for the tricks,considering the gyroscopic power of large tops
à bientôt ;) ;)
jim
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I’ll let everybody know I’m coming up on 71 years old and all the Trompos I’ve made talk to me. Rosie, told me if you want to see what I can really do get the right thrower. I don’t want Superman, ( Tyler ) or Super Boy ( Justin ). I want a BIG GORILLA. The only big Gorilla that can handle this Trompo in my area is POP TOP. So can someone out there get in touch with Bryan, and let him know Rosie, wants to dance with him?
sonnyflying@att.net
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looks good
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Congratulations Cecil on your scary beautiful top..
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I’ll let everybody know I’m coming up on 71 years old
holy hell you dont look a day over 45!!!
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I love your sense of humor Jack. I do have a child's BRAIN.
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Left one is a trick fighter. Diamenter 3.8 at 13 Oz.--- Middle is a hallow trick top. Diamenter 3.775 at 9 Oz.--- Right side is hallow trick top Diamenter 3.645 at 9 Oz. The one on the left is some kind of spalted wood. I loved the wood so much I took the other pices and glued them to black walnut. Lot's of beaver holes and lot's of work.
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Really nice work Cecil. You've stepped up your game here. If I wore a fedora I'd tip my hat to you. ;)
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Thank you lincolnrik.
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Hey Cecil,
You got almost 2,000 views
on this top / Wow.
I think its time to make a
11 inch top !
RFC
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Where do you see 2,000 views? If I get 10,000 views I will try to make a 11.500 segmented top. Black Walnut - Mahogany - Maple. It will be bearing. I just ordered bearings for the 10.5 top. I made this top straight tip for balancing wire walkers and stair way to heaven. Then I will try to put the bearings in.
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Where do you see 2,000 views?
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Hello Everyone,
Wow, Cecil, that is absolutely amazing! It must have taken a herculean effort to make that, and to throw it? ha!
I am extremely jealous! I think big tops like these are great for performances, and must be real crowd pleasers!
I have seen quite a few really big tops around on many youtube channels, and I would love my own! Is there any where that sells big tops? I don't have the "know how" to make these tops, and really, I don't have the time! I don't have Cecil's heroic determination and expertise!
Are these big tops dangerous at all? They look somewhat heavy!
Never a dull day around these parts... :D
113
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Thanks 113. This top took a lot of time and effort. I'm retired and do have the time and desire to get in there and learn how to work with a big top. Yes the top is dangerous for an old man but it's such a challenge to throw. When I take this top to the park people just stop and look. There are people that make big tops for sale. And I'm sure the price is good. Believe it or not I put the price on mine at $1500.00. And this wood is pine. If it were black walnut it would be a lot more. Most big tops are close to five pounds and are bearing. This top is three ponds and straight tip. I want wire walkers and stairway to heaven. Hope - Hope. Then I would like to try and put bearings in. Jealous and disire are all it takes to get one of these tops for yourself. Small tops - Big tops === FUN.
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Dear Cecil,
From the work you put into it...1500$ is pretty cheap! I can't imagine how many hours of work went into it. However, I would not be able to afford that for a WHILE! I was referring to perhaps something a little more mass produced? They seem common enough around the internet.
There is figaro, then there are countless youtube videos of people spinning 6"+ spintops.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBNkzrJzxHM
Like this one?
Do you or anyone else know about perhaps a more mass produced "big" bearing top? I mean, I understand that they will most likely be expensive, but 1000$ is way too much for me to even dream of at the moment.Are there any places that sell big tops that are made more commercially? In the 50$-150$ price range, or are all the "big-uns" custom made in a shop? I wouldn't mind commisioning someone to build me a big top, but my price range is like around 150-200$ max. Are all big spin tops in the Quadruple digits? Yours is a master work of art far beyond anything I would be able to fully appreciate, even if I had the money.
Thank you for your inspiring video. I bet you get lots of people staring! It is beautiful! It looks like you are a magician!
113
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Watt's makes big tops and so does Alan. Like I said I'm retired and I have time but not much money. I make my tops where my son works. They let me come in once in awhile. C.N.C lathes are the way to go. But there is no money to be made. It would be nice if Spintastic came out with a four inch plastic trompo like there big one. A four inch top is perfect.
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Thanks Kirk. I've never spot ed the Read times. I was so HAPPY to see that number. Then I start looking and find Erick's post had 4,391 Reads. Now I'm JEALOUS. And white us UGLY.
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Dear Cecil,
Have you tried selling your Tops on Ebay or etsy, or on this forum? I am sure that there are people on this forum or on Etsy who would be happy to buy different size tops from you. I don't know how much these things run for, so cannot say if 1500$ is a price people would be willing to pay. I am unable to buy it!
If you are looking for commissions. Is there anything you would be comfortable making for around the price range of 200$? I would certainly consider your offers. And I also apologize if I have insulted you with my question. I am unaware of how you price your commissioned work, if you are looking for commissions, that is ( I may be mistaken!).
Thank you,
113
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113 I love your interest in tops. If I had a wood lathe and I could come up with steal tips I would sell them at a good price. The perfect top to make for me would be a solid poplar tool steal tip with connecting rod. A top like this should sell for at least $ 125.00. To me there is no money to be made by selling tops. I love my tops because they do PERFORM. I've made a lot of steal tips. It takes me about an our and a half just to make one tip. The next one is an hour. I make them where my son works. I would charge $ 75.00 for one tip. If I had a metal lathe at home I would charge $ 25.00, that's the difference. Hope we meet someday and you can test my tops out.
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This is the video that got me started in making segmented tops. It's good.
https://youtu.be/wOasba1Eq4Y
AND THIS FORMULA IS WRONG. I made a 8.0 diamenter and it was off 3/8 that's not good. If you want it to work you have to TRIG out the angle. Or use a cad system if you have it. What I used.
To find cut length
8.0 diameter 8 segments
360 degrees / 8 segments = 45 degrees
45 degrees / 2 = 22.5 degrees
22.5 degrees tangent = .4142
8.0 diameter / 2 = 4.00 radius
4.0 radius x .4142 tangent = 1.6568 ( side opposite )
1.6568 ( side opposite ) x 2 = cut length
cut length 3.3137 or 3 5/16
OR TANGENT X DIAMENTER == CUT LENGTH
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Nice work Cecil!
I'll try to come visit You and Rosarita soon.
Sorry I've been MIA lately.
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Looking forward to it Pop Top. I play with the tops at Labou park San Jose. It's off Sinclair freeway. You can test out my new tops I've made. The big (3 5/8 dia.) fighters are FANTASTIC, and they also trick.
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Thank you so much for the video! It is very helpful. I am contemplating building my own spintop :D.
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I would make a four inch Poplar top. Prestain and stain a dark color. At four inch you don't have to hallow it. Usually I don't have to balance Poplar. You get good tops by making a lot of tops. There is no easy way. I've been making tops for five years. Still learning and having FUN.
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Tricks so far for ROSIE. I know I changed her name again. I have a good rason. Well the tricks I have done so far. Eights - Texas Cowboy - three regenerations - ten inch wire walker. Some lines work great but they won't do wire walkers. Sometimes I will boil the line in softner and throw the line in the dryer with bounce. This will work on some line. My 7/16 line will be in next week. If this top will do two foot wire walkers and one stair way to heaven I will leave it a stright tip. This top is still trying to beat me up.
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I love your dedication to this project, Cecil. Sounds like you are having good BAC gatherings with your top (Big And Crazy).
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Dear Cecil,
So, wait.. Did you do the stairway to heaven with the 10" top yet? I can't wait to hear about how that goes! You are amazing!
113
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The truth is I've had an amazing life. I was into the Ocean for 22 years. Free diving for ablone, and tank diving for big ling cod. I've had a lot of FUN. And now I'm making Trompos. Life is GOOD. I boiled a 3/8 line in Palmolive dish soap, and threw it in the dryer with bounce. I can only wire walk a foot. I have to find the best line for wire walkers, then I can go for the STAIR WAY to Heaven. My 7/16 line came in yesterday, so maybe it will work. I might have to make another tip with a bigger neck? I've already spent $ 45.00 on line. I'm starting to feel the Trompo will do all the basic tricks. I HOPE. A good video next week. ( I HOPE ).
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Dear Cecil,
They should have hired you for "The Most Interesting Man On Earth" commercial! LOL! Wow!
I can't wait to see your footage! It must be impressive with such a huge top! I notice that when I am performing, sometimes, its not so visible, the tricks I am doing!
Thanks!
113
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I made a new tip for Rosie. Aluminum tip with 8-32 steal screw for point. Neck is 1/2 and shoulder is 1 1/2 I will try it tonight.
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Every thing works. Wire walkers - stair way to heaven - body cork screw ETC. Trompo is to big for me. I think my grandson can handle it. I will try to make a video this weekend. What really made the differenc is the tip, and 3/8 x 12 foot long rope.
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I'm so happy to hear about your success!
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This tip is much more proportionate to the size of the top. I think now it is perfect.
Congratulations!
PS: I hope to spin it one day :)
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New tip looks great, congratulations on your success!
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All that hard work has paid off. Good job, Cecil!!!
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More practice. I'm useing a 12 foot rope. I will try a 15 foot and work down. Top needs more speed. And Pop Top.
https://youtu.be/eZ8-eTMVcAY
https://youtu.be/ePgb5S255ek
https://youtu.be/VkLZ-OVLkFc
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Very impressive, well done, both you and Rosie!!!!!!!!!!!!
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More practice. I'm useing a 12 foot rope. I will try a 15 foot and work down. Top needs more speed. And Pop Top.
well done cecil!!! has anybody ever done tricks with a top that size before???
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It takes guts to corkscrew that guy around your head! :o Nice!
well done cecil!!! has anybody ever done tricks with a top that size before???
The top on Eric's avatar used to be a 12 inch top. But it had an untimely end (very thin walls).
And then, there is Vulcan (http://www.ta0.com/forum/index.php/topic,2262.msg23170.html#msg23170) ;)
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Jack, that's what I would like to know? I know that Pop Top can do all the basic tricks with this top. He has the ability and POWER for a 7/16 by 15 foot rope. And Eric, made the bigest and most beautiful top in the World. This top is 3 pounds at 10 1/2 diamenter. Some one should make a 10 inch out of pine with 1 1/2 aluminum tip. You need more SPEED. Sure with bearings the top will do double body cork screws. But it's amazing to see just what a straight tip can do. And I love the VULCAN.
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Hello Everyone,
No, I have never thrown such a large top, but then again I am relatively new to this. Wow, I wouldn't believe it if I saw it... I see it, and I still don't believe it! I am astounded, flabbergasted and astonished! You have my deep admiration, Cecil! Thank you so much for uploading those videos, not only are you a master carpenter, but your skills with the top are outstanding!
Oh, does it hurt catching such a heavy top on that sharp point? I'd imagine that it feels like being hit with a hammer, or... like catching a 10lb spinning fixed tip top... You have stretched the boundaries of our fair sport today Cecil! This is a historical day!
Thanks again,
113
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Thank you 113. I hope we throw tops together some day. The first time I threw the 10 inch National top it knocked me over. It helps to bring your hand down when it hits, and go with it. Look at the way Pop Top handles a big top. I'm throwing on 12 foot line I think he can throw on 13 to 15 foot line. If I made another one I would make it 10 inches and try for 2 1/2 pounds. Them maybe I could get two stair ways to heaven.
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https://youtu.be/B1118BOJO3o
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You are a brave man, Cecil! 8) I never even considered attempting staircase to heaven with Figaro!
I liked how you have tested all those ropes to find the best one.
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Thanks Tao. I think I know how to make a 10 inch top that does all the tricks I can do. Plus the double body cork screw. Top 10 inch - 2 1/2 pounds - segmented PINE - BLACK WALNUT plugs - ALUMIUM TIP with steal point - shoulder 1 1/2 with 9/16 neck - with 3/8 x 13 foot bolt line from HOMEDEPO. With the faster speed it could do a double STAIR WAY TO HEAVEN. Is there a 10 inch top that can do these tricks? I hope someone makes one.
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New top. Poplar - Black Walnut - Red Oak. Top is 4 1/2 diamenter weighs 11 OZ. Test it tonight.
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That is one nice looking top!
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I, too, think that is one pretty top. I enjoy looking at what you did with the segmented wood!
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I have three more tops that are all roughed out. I'm saving the segmented top for last. I would like to make a ten inch segmented top out of MAPLE - PURPLE HEART - and - BLACK WALNUT. I think it would weigh about 3 1/2 pounds and would need bearings. But it would be the most beautiful top in the WORLD. I hope someone out there will make it. My new top ( Poplar, Black Walnut, Redoak) needs 1/8 dia. by 1/2 long lead. That's not bad. Just means more work.
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Stunning work Cecil! You have become a master top maker!
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Cecil,
YOU DA MAN !!!!!!
RFC
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Starting bid is $350.00 dollars for this 4 1/2 top. The 10 1/2 inch top starts at $1200.00.This should answer all questions about my tops. When you don't have a lathe and you are retired ( NO MONEY) that's the way it is. That's why I asked Dale to make a four inch plastic top for about $75.00 then we all could be in HEAVEN.
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Dear Cecil,
If I was rich, I would definitely buy those tops, certainly worth it! They are absolutely beautiful! I can't wait to see your other works! You are an inspiration to everyone!
Thank you so much for your explanation, I certainly understand what you mean, Poptop certainly has an adapted technique to catching the tops. Have you considered trying to make the big tops lighter? Perhaps by having holes in them, or using a lighter material on the inside, and a veneer of beautiful wood on the outside, instead of only wood? I can see from the videos that if you are not careful, the top can throw the thrower! They seem somewhat unruly at this size. I would imagine that for performances, they would be ideal however, if only they could have less mass, but the same volume.
113
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New top. Poplar - Black Walnut - Red Oak. Top is 4 1/2 diamenter weighs 11 OZ. Test it tonight.
that looks so good i want to eat it cecil @-@
well done man that is grade A eh :o
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https://youtu.be/4Mxl5a69rME
My first try at a big top. It's getting better.
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Pictures of different lines.
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Long candy cane line is 3/8 thick the not is at 14 feet seven inches. Works Great. The line is about 19 feet, so I can see what my Grandson and Brian can throw at. I think they can get double body corkscrews and double stairway to heaven. This line is CROWN BOLT- BRADED. LOVE IT. And it fits perfect in the O.S.H bucket. FUN IN A BUCKET.
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New line.
https://youtu.be/w1pi9FrRHHM
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This is the 1/8 x 10 foot lehigh line.
https://youtu.be/McA3PIf5jVs
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Top is balanced and does all the tricks I can do.
https://youtu.be/VuhcwVmXfmo
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This new top is Black Walnut and Red Oak, and I did not have to balance it.
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Top is balanced and does all the tricks I can do.
https://youtu.be/VuhcwVmXfmo
nice 8)
This new top is Black Walnut and Red Oak, and I did not have to balance it.
if only every spintop looked that cool......
(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/11/8b/ff/118bff80460535e781443e4294b79467.jpg)
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Dear Cecil,
Would you please tell me how you got the tips for those wooden spintops?
Thank you,
113
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Dear Cecil,
Would you please tell me how you got the tips for those wooden spintops?
Thank you,
113
he speaks his words to the lathe and the lathe obeys because he is cecil master machinest and swimmer amongst the great whites dammit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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I make all my tips. They are mostly steal and the first takes 1 1/2 hour then it gets faster. I use an old metal lathe and it just takes time.
I'm working on LITTLE ROSIE. And a new 4 1/2 inch top.
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I hope Little Rosie comes out 8.0 diamenter, at 1 3/4 pounds. What I'm after is a double stair way to heaven and double body cork screw with 3 foot wire walkers.
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that looks awesome
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Cecil that looks absolutely fantastic. Well done sir.
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Beautiful top Cecil! 8)
That is a big post on the crown! ???
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I love this wood. If I had the money I would make one 6 1/2 diameter. I'm testing the balance. Then the post comes off. And I still have to make the delrin rod.
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I love this wood. If I had the money I would make one 6 1/2 diameter.
what would the wood run ya for a 6 1/2???
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I will check it out. The 10 1/2 pine and common wood was about $ 20.0, for the same thing in black walnut etc. it would be about at $100. 00. I would like to know what Erick spent on the wood for his 12.00 inch black walnut. He made it from solid black walnut so maybe $150.0 to $200. If your new to making tops ( like me ) you should stick to PINE AND COMMON WOOD.
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My daughter wanted me to make her a flower pot SEGMENTED. I told her you never make anything you can buy. And you know who won the argument.
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My daughter wanted me to make her a flower pot SEGMENTED. I told her you never make anything you can buy. And you know who won the argument.
lookin good.......and i may or may not be talking about the segmented pot ::)
look forward to seeing the finished pot eh
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nice beautifull awesome very very nice !!!!!!! ;)
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If you read pot backwards . . . ;)
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That makes me feel so much better Tao. Thank you.
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My son did not want another Rosie. So here is the WASP. The top is 8 diamenter and weighs 1 pound 13 ounces. It's made out of Pine. I will try to check it out tomorrow and make a video.
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Beautiful, Cecil! Wow, 1 lb 13 oz sounds like a recipe for a boomerang-induced shoulder dislocation, but you seem to be up to it.
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Great work! I look forward to one day throwing your tops. :)
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My son did not want another Rosie. So here is the WASP. The top is 8 diamenter and weighs 1 pound 13 ounces. It's made out of Pine. I will try to check it out tomorrow and make a video.
New name the WIFE wants the name changed to LA BELLA.
https://youtu.be/rUU4pH8EZjQ
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Bellissimo!
Those high boomerangs with a big top are really impressive!
And the kidos looked very impressed with grandpa! (me too)
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Thanks Jeremy and Tao. The line is 1/4 by 10 feet. I need a longer line to do the double body cork screw. Like 1/4 by 13 feet. So it's on it's way. I tried 3/16 line and the top would not come back, with many trys. Today I used a different 3/16 same name and everything and it worked? I'm so happy. I still can't get a stair way to HEAVEN. YET. I hope you come to the Bay Area some day - I have a lot of tops you can check out.
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New name the WIFE wants the name changed to LA BELLA.
you are fearless sir...... i would be terrified to do a corkscrew with that behemoth @-@
bravo!!!
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My son did not want another Rosie. So here is the WASP. The top is 8 diamenter and weighs 1 pound 13 ounces. It's made out of Pine. I will try to check it out tomorrow and make a video.
niiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiice!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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The video shows me using a 1/4 x 10 foot rope. I have longer 1/4 rope on the way. The rope I was using was to short for the double body cork screw. I tried 3/16 diamenter and it would not work. Then I found another long 3/16 and the top would work. Now I'm throwing on 3/16 x 13 feet 9 inches. WOW -- Now LA BELLA comes in like a rocket. I did my stair way to heaven and I'm sure this top will do ALL THE TRICKS. Hopefully I will make another video with LA BELLA doing all the tricks I can do. Believe me every serious top thrower should experience throwing a top like this.
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Love the top. Looks like it handles nicely.
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Does anyone know what tool he is using to burn the wood?
https://youtu.be/NMSgCsBBZ7c
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Whatever it is, it sure does do the job on burning that wood! It creates some good smoke, too.
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La Bella throwing on 3/16 x 13 feet 9 inches rope. Trying to get doubles. This is an 8 inch pine top. Maybe a 7 inch will be easier to trick with.
https://youtu.be/n91KsXhHSkQ
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Does anyone know what tool he is using to burn the wood?
its another piece of wood ;)
ive used that technique before but it scares the crap out of me with all the sawdust and woodchips laying about @-@
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La Bella is 8.0 diamenter and comes in at 1 pound 15 oz. So now I'm thinking of 7.0 diamenter at maybe 1 pound 8 oz. I want the biggest top that I can do all the tricks I know.
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La Bella throwing on 3/16 x 13 feet 9 inches rope. Trying to get doubles. This is an 8 inch pine top. Maybe a 7 inch will be easier to trick with.
spiffy spiffy spiffy ;)
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15204 watches. Wow. It's time for every one to make BIG TOPS.
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The best thing to burn rings on a lathe is an expired guitar string held between two things (NOT FINGERS). Test several strings to see if you like smaller or larger wire and the burn it gives. I have one with the ends screwed into wood balls, one with two short dowels with a hole drilled through and the wire knotted, and one with the wire twisted around the shafts of a pair of small screw drivers. I find that 10 to 12 inches is a good length. Your mileage may very!
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Hmmm! Old guitar strings? I sure have a bunch of those.....like a box full!!!
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This was over five years ago - now I’m 75, still recovering from double hip surgery. I’m looking forward to throwing my four inch tops. So take my advice if you want to do something do it now - before you get to old to do it. I Hope the future is just a lot of fun for al of us.
Happy Mew Year.
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Wow - over 46,000 hits.