Gifts on the Lathe: Turn a Custom Kitchen Tool Handle

In this hands-on woodturning class, you’ll create a custom wooden handle for the Rockler turning hardware kit of your choice. Select a bottle opener, pizza cutter, or ice cream scoop kit, then choose a domestic or exotic wood blank and shape it into a one-of-a-kind handle. This beginner-friendly workshop will guide you through drilling, turning, sanding, finishing, and final assembly—resulting in a functional project that is perfect to use or give as a handmade gift.

The finished wooden handle will measure approximately 6" long x 1¼" in diameter.

What You’ll Do:

Purchase your preferred Rockler hardware kit when signing in for class

Select a wooden handle blank from a variety of domestic and exotic wood species

Drill the blank using a drill press to accept the threaded insert

Install the threaded insert that will secure the hardware to the finished handle

Mount the blank on a wood lathe and shape it using Rockler carbide turning tools

Sand the handle through 600 grit for a smooth surface

Apply a durable, food-safe finish

Install your purchased hardware kit to complete the project

Purchase Your Hardware Kit:

Bottle Opener Hardware Kit: $10.99

Ice Cream Scoop Hardware Kit: $19.99

Pizza Cutter Hardware Kit: $29.99

Hardware kits are purchased separately at the store on the day of the class. Prices range from $10.99–$29.99 plus applicable local sales tax.

What’s Included:

Expert instruction in a class limited to four attendees

Choice of one domestic or exotic wooden handle blank

Use of Rockler tools and safety gear

All sanding and finishing supplies

A bounce-back coupon featuring:

15% off next in-store purchase on the day of class*

10% off next in-store purchase within 30 days of class*

* Excludes sale items, power tools, gift cards, Porter Cable ddovetail jigs, CNC machines, Leigh products, SawStop, Festool, and Tormek.

Important Info:

Turning hardware kit is not included in the class registration price and must be purchased separately in-store on the day of the class.

Class is beginner-friendly—no previous woodturning experience is required

Ages 14+—minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian

Parents or guardians supervising a minor do not need to purchase a separate ticket

Attendees will be using power tools—proper safety instruction and equipment will be provided

Class duration is approximate

Each attendee takes home their custom turned handle with their purchased hardware turning kit installed

Registration fee excludes applicable sales tax