newbie questions

Vic Baron · 2011-10-05T18:10:06+00:00

Hi - First post - going to be fun setting up the kill filter! Been a wrecker for years and am just getting back into turning. MANY years ago I had an old Shopsmith which I used as a lathe to make legs and spindles for various projects. So turning isn't completely foreign but I have a lot to learn. Bought an inexpensive mini lathe from Rockler and a few tools that I didn't have from my old turning adventures. I plan on making cups, boxes, knobs - maybe eventually I'll try a bowl. Not much interested in pens. Bought a few books but frankly they weren't too good - more into listing the parts of the lathe and the names of the tools and basically what they are used for. The questions I have are many but a few for starters - Where can I find out what kind of wood is good for turning? I have oak, walnut, maple, mahogany and some expensive unusual woods. I guess what puzzles me is should I use soft woods, hard woods, close grain or open grain and what are the benefits and pitfalls of same. Another - is there a guide for size of turning vs speed? unfortunately I do not have the time to go to a turner's class so I have to rely on reading, you tube, Usenet and practice. What books/dvd's would you suggest for a slightly experienced beginner? Thanx, Vic

Oct 05, 2011 22 Replies

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Vic Baron 14 years ago

Ah - understood.

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mac 14 years ago

I'm not anywhere near knowledgeable or skilled to make that mod, Gerald...

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mac 14 years ago

On all but the Nova, I just use a household electrical box with a large "pull on/ push off" switch on the face.. I replaced the original knob with a larger one that I turned.. The box has a magnet epoxied to the back so that it sticks to whatever part of the lathe that you're working near.. I usually position it so I can hit it with a hip or elbow in case both hands are busy...

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