I was curious how other people are holding finished work without marring it?

I've turned down some 6061, then flip it around in the chuck to work on the other end. I get nice little jaw marks on the finished side.

I thought about putting some masking tape on the the finished side. I just wasn't sure how that would effect the accuracy of the turned part. The chuck already gives me problems about items spinning exactly true. ((when it's been flipped over))

Professionals use collet chucks or collet pads to grip parts. But wrapping a turn of thin brass shimstock around the part will protect the surface pretty well, too.

paper works well if your on a budget although its kinda a pain in the butt. Same with shim stock though! ;)

When the configuration of the part allows, I perform all finishing work between centers to eliminate chuck's marks.

I also use card stock - like cereal boxes cut into small pads to protect the part from chuck's teeth. When I use pads it is only for light cuts and I will use a live center. I would suggest that all roughing work is done first then chuck lightly for finishing, or finish between centers.

For some apps I have used fine sandpaper to provide additional grip.

Scott

I'm turning the part between centers, but I have to part and face off the ends.

I'm fighting with the chuck and it's inability to center the part regardless of how I insert it. It's always a gnat hair off.

Ah well. I guess it's a learning experience. = )