For all the turners out there there is a book and video available called Turning Wood with Richard Raffan. I think you can get it through Woodcraft, or
http://www.packardwoodworks.com/. Richard is a Pro wood turner and after you watch how he turns you'll be able to rip wood off a blank like there is no tomorrow
. I'm sure there is a lot more info out there, but I found the video very helpful.