Hi, I am new to turning and I am in a wheelchair, any tips would be most welcome, such as beginners projects, basic tool set chucks etc.
regards Peter
new boy!
Nov 03, 2006
7 Replies
Though you don't say why you're in a wheelchair, it would be good to get a chair which revolves and elevates for closer access and body English.
The minis or midis are a great place to start, between centers will teach you the tools, which you need not spend an enormous amount on to begin with. A chuck is a great convenience which makes the most of the time you spend at the lathe, but it's not strictly necessary. Drop in here, if you haven't already
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for specific brands available there. I'd say Teknatool has a good capable lathe, and some fine chucks. P&N some great tools. Get you in above the "starter" level, but might be the last you'd need.
I came across this site a while back.
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Hi Peter,
Welcome to the group. A great starter tools set is this set from Harbor Freight.
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it's item #47066. It's about all you'll need for spindle work. Add a couple of bowl gouges and you can turn just about anything. There are a few specialty tools you might need some day. But cross that bridge when you get there. The current catalog (156-D) on page #60 has the set for $29.95. If you order tell them you have coupon #591-715 to save an additional $5.00. So for $25 you get a nice set of 8 tools. You can barely find one tool for that price! Enjoy the hobby! Dan
"Peter Douglas" wrote: (clip)I am in a wheelchair, any tips would be most welcome, (clip) ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Your biggest problem is not being able to lean up and over the work. One suggested solution would be to mount the lathe low, and tilted toward you.
Here in the UK, we have a pro turner, Tony Wilson, who turns from a wheelchair. He has a Hegner with a low stand that he uses for demos. I've not seen any sign of it being tilted at all. I'll possibly be seeing him towards the end of November and could ask if he has any advice - or if he has an e-mail address for you (Peter)to contact him directly.
He's also a demonstrator/tutor for SilverFast lathes, BTW.
Ken
There are several people here who are also in a wheelchair. Check the google archives for help/information. And welcome!
Hi Peter. Here's a Gent to contact. He's in a wheel chair, and it hasn't stopped him any.
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