Well, I've not turned cork but have been turning a lot of wood in the last yr+. I would think that you do not want to start out turning cork. You first need to use and sharpen your tools. I understand that Harbot Frt. has a pretty good set for not much $ that might get you started. Then I would start by playing with some wood, possibly just scrap 2x 4 cut down to 2x2. See what the tools do. Read a couple of books, probably can find at your local library. Learn to sharpen your tools. Cork is very soft and I would think a dull tool would shred it pretty fast. Ask around and you might find some local wood turners to help get you started. WARNING: woodturning is addictive and gets expensive fast - worse than rod making- The voice of experience speaking Good Luck Allyn