One of the famous subsets for woodworking is woodturning. This is why most of the woodturners do not really care about some attributes of woodworking apart from turning. There must be enough reason why it is so.
Firstly, if you want to know how to wood turn, you must have a good quality lathe, sharp gouges, skew chisels and partying tools. You must keep the tools sharp if you want to cut easily, know about woodturning safety and how to get a good quality lathe.
There is so much to it and that is why this article compiles everything you need to know about wood lathe, from how to choose a good one to how you should use it. So, let’s learn!
What makes a Good Wood Lathe?
A Good Base
A good lathe must have a foundation that is good as well and one of the best lathes are powermatic wood lathes. Whether the lathe is a full-size, a mini-lathe, or a small-lathe the lathe must have a strong bed. It is the major horizontal across the lathe’s base. The beam is made from cast iron which must be heavy for the lathe to vibrate. The lathe’s height should be the same height as your elbow. When the spindle is low, you are likely to have backaches because of bending and when it’s too high, keeping the tools in good alignment with a tool rest might be hard.
Tail Stock
It should be locked safely in a place positioned on the bed. This gives you versatility when turning.
Head Stock & Motor
Majority of motors have approximately 500 RPM and 4000 RPM. The bigger a motor is the bigger piece you are able to turn. This is because it will need to keep a workpiece turning at a speed that is consistent.
Power Switch
The switch should be accessed easily when switching on/off. A big paddle switch could be overkill to the lathe. You need to switch on/off easily when necessary.
Tool Rest
A tool rest should be easily adjustable. It must be locked strongly in a position it can lead the tool well. In case you might want to turn bowls or big spindles, it is good you have more than two tool rests for change. It gives you versatility when cutting bowls.
How Do You Care For Your Lathe
- Keep on checking if the drive belts are worn out or torn out. If they are, change them.
- Clean the lathe by vacuuming to get rid of the dust. This helps prevent the accumulation of grit and grime. However, others just need cleaning using a cloth and a solvent.
- Follow the lathe manual.
- Lubricate as required from the manual.
- finishes application or CA glue, cover the lathe and protect the motor.
- Replace the lathe’s accessories such as mandrels or bearing parts when necessary.
How Do You Set Up a Wood Lathe?
- Read the manual and follow the instructions.
- Have all the accessories you require.
- Place the lathe close to the dust collection system.
- Position the lathe with your elbow being at the same height with the same distance as the center of the drive.
- Screw the bolt to the surface to reduce vibration.
- Use some lighting to see scratches and the final finishing.
In cessation, when using a wood lathe, always take the precautionary measures such as protecting your eye and keeping your hands safe. You do not want to have your fingers stuck in the spinning stock. Finally, remember to remove the chuck keys or any lathe tools. Above everything else, read the wood lathe manual carefully and follow the instructions to the letter.
