I just picked up a lathe for cheap (well, actually, free). I've built lots of rods in the past, but haven't turned any inserts or grips. Any pointers on this before I get started? I've never used one before, so I'm not quite sure how to do it. Do you bond the cork to the blank before you turn it or is there a better way? I am assuming that you can turn your cork with sandpaper, but I'll have to get some tools to cut the wood.
I'm going to save up a few bucks to get a good 5 or 6 wt blank, and then put a turned insert/grip on it. I have some copano burl rings from Lamar, and am going to add a couple of burnt rings for trim inserts, and am looking for the right wood for the seat. I'm considering some nice walnut with stain and poly under A7 hardware.