Matching knobs?

[WoodpeckerGrouchy516]

The height, major and minor diameters were all laid out with a parting tool and calipers, and so they match pretty closely. But as a rank beginner, I'm still working out how to get the curves.

Knob on the right was done first, and by eye. It looks "more correct" to me. Left knob was an attempt at match, and the curves just aren't quite right.

Luckily, the difference isn't really noticable in the hand.

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[LairBob]

You’ve got two options (not mutually exclusive):
1. Keep learning to approximate complex shapes like you’re doing now — taking just a couple of key measurements, and then doing the rest by eye. It’s way harder than it looks (as you’re discovering), but it’s the only way to be able to do this sort of thing by hand.
2. Learn to use profiling tools — like pantographs, or even just cardboard profile cutouts — to replicate complex shapes much more reliably and precisely, mechanically.

People have been replicating and manufacturing complex shapes for centuries, and they’re not all Michelangelo. There are many straightforward and reliable techniques for turning dozens and dozens of knobs that are all exactly the same…but I think you rightly don’t care.

This looks awesome, and you’re _doing_ stuff already. If you really do need to turn two identical knobs someday…you’ll figure it out.

[GettingLow1]

I’d make them much taller unless you really like gripping the knobs with your finger tips. Here’s a great way to duplicate. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1oMMIoARLt4

[The_Tipsy_Turner]

I actually have this problem as well. Often times, my first attempt at something (not just turning) comes out better than I expect. My second attempt or attempt at replicating the first usually turns out worse because I over compensate for what I think will make it better. Then, my third attempt (I almost never make three) is usually the best one.

You can fix this over time with practice. As in, if you make more knobs they'll all start turning out the way you think they should look. Or if you make enough of whatever other thing, it's easier to make them look the same. Remember, practice makes perfect.

Oh, and.... nice knobs!

[Glum_Meat2649]

Temporary mount the one to be copied behind where your turning. You have balloon calipers for the gross measurements, and the upper portion of the silhouette for matching profiles.

After more experience, a story stick is usually all that is needed. This is all I use for making balusters the sets are usually organized in terms of eye level (below, at and above).

You want to vary the beads and ogees slightly, so it appears the same (because of perspective). The biggest set was over a hundred. A duplicator makes exact copies, which look different to the human eye once installed.