Turn a Wood Spin Top 

Nice video, Mike. For those who want a top that will spin a very long time, try adding a small ball bearing on the tip. I use a point tool to make a very small indentation on the tip, Then add a touch of CA glue and press in the ball bearing. I use one eighth inch ball bearings which I bought on eBay very inexpensively. Spin the top on a round make-up mirror with a concave surface, and it will spin for more than two minutes.

Lots of different ways to decorate these come to mind. A nice age appropriate toy for kids...ages 4 to 80. ;o) i'm going to make one for me!!!!!

I'll definitely have to give it a shot. I would recommend checking out Mike's and other videos on making a chatter tool.

Wonderful video Mike! Thanks! I just picked up a chattering tool at the Baltimore Woodworking Show last weekend. Looking forward to trying this tomorrow. Lou

Good video, Mike!

Congratulations for the work, very good and beautiful ... I'm from Brazil, I intend to make one for testing. Congratulations, Silvio Jr nota 10

these tops would make awesome furniture doorknops!

When you had that catch I didn't feel so bad when it happen to me. Jim's wood shop.

Hi Mike, I’ve recently started wood turning and have been enjoying your RU-vid videos a lot. I recall seeing a video where you discussed Bartlett Pear turning but can’t find it. I’ve come into possession of a large Bartlett limb that broke off a neighbors tree. It’s been down probably 8 or 9 months and has been cut to various lengths but it don’t see any large cracks yet. I’m trying to determine my best plan of action to be able to use it in the best manner. I’m not sure you discussed it in much depth but if you could point me to it and or give me some advice I’d really appreciate it. Thanks for any advice and please keep posting. Tony Gentry in Avon, Indiana

Thanks for the info!! Quick question though... you mentioned using stable dry wood... would you consider using glued up blanks??

Not alone. My wood went flying off. Being to aggressive. Keep makin the shavins. Thanks for the instructions.

When you use the polishing wax what RPMs work best? I haven't had much success and think I am using too slow of a speed. Great video btw!

Very nice Mike. Did you make your chatter tool, if not where do you find them. I tried using a flimsy kitchen knife but it didn't work.

What is a “Chatter Tool”?

Jan 12, 2015

Thanks Mike! Always enjoy the videos, love the detail!!

Good toys for kids!

hello Mike how to make the tool to texture the wood please thank you

Cool job thank you for sharing

I like that, do you sell those if so how much?

Thak you Mike Júlíus

Hi Mike, I just came across this video of yours while looking for quick projects to show the grandkids when they come to visit next weekend. When you started to use Auburn colors for the one top, I thought we had a couple of more things in common, serving in the AF and Auburn. then you put the text up about having gone to that other school down there.😒 I guess like causing the wood to fly out of the chuck, you can’t be perfect.😄 Anyway thanks for another good video. Stay safe and well so you can keep them coming. U of A really 😔Cheers, Tom - War Eagle!