Bowl Segment Calculator
Calculate the dimensions of wooden segments for turning a segmented bowl. Enter the ring diameter, number of segments, and stock thickness to get the segment length, width, and miter angle for each piece.
Formula
Segment length = π × diameter / n; Miter angle = 90 − 180/n
- Segment length is the outer arc length per segment.
- Miter angle is set on table saw for each end of each segment.
10 in ring, 12 segments
Inputs
- Ring Diameter (outer): 10 in
- Number of Segments per Ring: 12
- Segment Thickness: 0.75 in
Miter = 90−15 = 75°. Segment length = π×10/12 = 2.618 in.
Frequently asked questions
What miter angle for 12 segments?
75° (= 90 − 180/12 = 90 − 15). Each end of every segment is cut at this angle so the pieces close into a full ring.
How do I choose the number of segments per ring?
More segments give a rounder ring with shorter pieces but more glue joints. Twelve segments is a common starting point; finer work uses 16 or 24.
Why add kerf to the segment width?
The saw blade removes material at each cut, so a small kerf allowance keeps the finished ring close to the target diameter after trimming and sanding.
Is the segment length measured on the inside or outside?
This calculator uses the outer arc length per segment, which is the longest edge of each trapezoidal piece.