A few years ago, I turned an ice cream scoop using a kit I picked up from Woodcraft. The result was fantastic, but the one-piece design made cleaning a bit of a challenge. Recently, I found a better option—an Ice Cream Scoop Kit from Rockler. This kit features a removable scoop that screws into the base, making it much easier to clean.

Tips for Turning Ice Cream Scoop Handles

If you’re into woodturning or want to try your hand at making a custom ice cream scoop handle, here are a few essential tips:

• Use sharp tools: When turning hardwoods like cherry, sharp tools are crucial to prevent tear-out and achieve a smooth finish.
• Take it slow: Shape the handle with a slow and steady approach, especially near the ends, to avoid overcutting.
• Finish it right: After turning, sand the handle with fine-grit sandpaper to highlight the wood’s natural beauty. Finish with CA glue or polyurethane for a durable, moisture-resistant surface.

Why You Should Try This Ice Cream Scoop Kit

Whether you’re an experienced woodworker or a beginner, this ice cream scoop kit is a fun project that produces a beautiful, practical tool. Plus, it’s a great way to add a custom touch to your kitchen utensils, and the finished product will last for years to come.

If you make one of these be sure to post a picture of it over on the WoodLogger Facebook Page.  I’d love to see how yours turns out. (pun intended)

Material List

• (1) Ice Cream Scoop Kit (Rockler)
• (1) 2″ x 2″ x 6″ Wood Blank (I used Cherry)
• (1) Optional Turning Mandrel (Rockler)

Milling & Assembly

	This turning kit was a solid choice from Rockler.  The scoop is desinged to screw into the base and allows for easy cleaning.  I used an accessory mandrel to help with turning this.  For the wood I chose to use a block of cherry wood.
	The first step to get started is to find the center of the block on one end.  I used a center finder to help with this.  If you don’t have a center finder just use a ruler to mark an X off by drawing a line across each end.  The plan for this scoop called for hole to be drilled that is 1/2″ drill bit and drilled 1-1/2″ deep.
	Next up was installing the inset.  For this I used CA glue and used the included allen wrench to screw the inset into the wood.
	Although it’s an optional piece I would highly recommend using the mandrel that rockler sells for this kit.  It can be used for other kits that Rockler sells too.  I screwed in the wood to the mandrel and then turned the handle using a bowl gauge, and skew.
	After turning the handle I used a 5 pack of sanding papers that range from 150 grit sand paper to 600 grit.  I worked my ways through the grits and then moved on to waxing the handle.  For waxing I used EEE Ultra Shine and applied a few coats.  After that I applied a coat of Shella Wax.
	This turning kit turned out great.  It’s an easy to turn handle, and the kit has everything you need (minus the optional mandrel).  The easy to remove scoop makes it easy to clean and should last for years.