New to the Lathe

[putttn]

I've had my SS for a few years and now need to do some "turning" to make a round dowel so thought it time I use all the capabilities of the SS..that being said, I have never used it and wondererd how I set it up and anything to "watch for" before I get started???

[kalynzoo]

As a total amateur I can tell you it is at first intimidating. Watch some of the Youtube videos. They are instructive. Keep the SS spinning slow. Make sure the chisels are sharp. Don't push the chisel into the wood, rather pivot it down so it just starts to slice the wood. My first effort was with a piece of construction pine from a 2x4. Bad choice, the wood was soft and the rough turning was disappointing. A dry 2x2 of poplar or similar medium density would might give a more reassuring result. I found the evening class at a not too local Woodcraft Store really worthwhile in building my confidence.
Good luck, don't get discouraged, there is a definite learning curve.

[putttn]

Thanks for the info. We've got a local Woodcraft store and that might be the best place to start.

[ted2]

I have mainly used the SS as a lathe, after I bought quite a few accessories. Added a faceplate, live center (a must if you ask me), and a few mandrels, and I was set. I'm still eyeballing a nice chuck. DON'T slide that headstock too quickly against your tailstock to lock in a piece between centers. Apply pressure using the quill. The carriage can get in the way if you're not careful, and it will crack easily. (Ask me how I know this.) The tool rest will move, no matter how tight you make it, so just go with the flow. The tool rest does not work well for very small pieces, it has a limited range of coverage, you can turn it backwards for a little extra room. (Like pens) My next project is turning a large bowl, whatever will fit!

[rkh2]

I have the universal tool rest and don't know how I functioned without it. Besides adding much weight to make for more stable turning, it's maneuverability is without a doubt a huge asset to all kinds of turning projects from basic spindle/pen turning to bowls and items such as hollow ornaments and lidded boxes. Also have the talon chuck which Shopsmith offers and use it for majority of projects with the exception of pens which I use a pen mandrel from Penn State Industries.

[rikbrooks]

You are GONNA get catches. There you are, cutting away then BAM! it's like the wood somehow jerks in the tool. You'll gouge your wood. The longer you turn the less often this happens.

The number one rule, keep your tools sharp. Learn how to shapen them right too. You'll need some kind of jig. Don't just step up to your grinder and think you can eyeball it.