George Vondriska

How to Make a Dibble for Gardening Using a Lathe

George Vondriska
Sign in
Duration:   14  mins

If you, or someone you know, dabbles in gardening, you need to learn how to make a dibble for the dabbler. A dibble is used for planting; it’s very helpful for producing a hole for a bulb or seed, and getting the hole just the right depth.

Lathe work

Learning how to make a dibble is pretty straightforward. After gluing stock up for the blank, the blank is turned on the lathe. This allows you to produce the required taper, along with the grooves that are used for depth markers. We provide you with a hot technique that really makes the depth marks pop. If you’re not well versed in lathe turning techniques, or just want a refresher before you start on this turning project, Woodworkers Guild of America has you covered. We’ve got lots of great articles and videos that will help you learn or refresh your turning techniques.

More turning projects

Warning, lathe turning is very addictive. One of the great things about most lathe projects is how quickly you can make them. Instant (or nearly instant) gratification is great. Woodworkers Guild of America has lots of woodturning projects available for you.

For more information on Titebond II or Titebond III visit www.titebond.com, or call (800) 877-4583

Share tips, start a discussion or ask one of our experts or other students a question.

Make a comment:
500 characters remaining

6 Responses to “How to Make a Dibble for Gardening Using a Lathe”

  1. Danny Barnes

    I'm a lung transplant recipient and am interested in your air supply face shield. Brand name and source would be helpful. I will make a dibble for my wife. She is working on becoming a Master Gardener here in (Roll Tide) Tuscaloosa, Alabama

  2. Paul B

    1) What speed were you turning at? 2) If I would like a more durable finish, assuming poly the best choice, what type and number of coats? TIA

  3. Jonathan

    I guess while asking ... what is a pretty decent lathe you might recommend as well? I was hoping I can get the 12 inch version at Harbor Freight for $300. It has decent reviews even though Im always a little skeptical of their larger items. What do you recommend here I guess? Thanks

  4. Jonathan

    Please tell me where to get the facemask you are using and also what is a pretty good starter set of tools to get? I dont want the most expensive set out there but don't mind bumping up a couple notches to get a decent set. Thanks

  5. Louise

    Can I get the Dia of the bottom and top of the marks for the dibble?

  6. matty3

    I can not watch videos why????

Get exclusive premium content! Sign up for a membership now!