Shopsmith Forums

Good morning All,

I am new to this Shopsmith forum, so please excuse me if I in any way confuse anyone as I attempt to post my question and concern.

I have owned a Shopsmith Mark V since the mid 1990s, yet have used it very infrequently (mostly the lathe). I also own the bandsaw, vacuum and a used jointer. My problem: I've recently retired and now have the opportunity to use it more, but am greatly intimidated by my lack of knowledge and experience. (My only previous experience was in 1985 when I joined a local woodworking class at a junior high school and made a cradle for my first daughter who was soon to be born. I have two girls, and both slept in the cradle at the foot of my wife's and my bed, for three months each. Sadly, the cradle was destroyed during a fire at my home in 1994.)

I sent an email to Shopsmith, requesting information on any woodworking classes that they offered or sponsored. They replied that they no longer have classes; but suggested that I submit my query via this Forum. I live in the greater Springfield, Massachusetts area (Agawam 01001). Is there anyone who is part of this Forum who owns a Shopsmith and would be willing to help me by assisting me in getting (re)familiar with my Shopsmith? Incidentally, my eldest daughter - the one who the cradle was originally made for - just got engaged, and I have a feeling that I will become a grandfather shortly. I've always said that I would make another cradle when the time came. I feel the time closing in.

If this email catches the "right" person, you may contact me directly. My home telephone number is (413) 789-0877 and my email address is: roswell1863@gmail.com. My name is Wendell.

Thank you for your interest and (hoped for) cooperation. Happy Holidays to All!

[quote="roswellsrelative"]Good morning All,

I am new to this Shopsmith forum, so please excuse me if I in any way confuse anyone as I attempt to post my question and concern.

I have owned a Shopsmith Mark V since the mid 1990s, yet have used it very infrequently (mostly the lathe). I also own the bandsaw, vacuum and a used jointer. My problem: I've recently retired and now have the opportunity to use it more, but am greatly intimidated by my lack of knowledge and experience. (My only previous experience was in 1985 when I joined a local woodworking class at a junior high school and made a cradle for my first daughter who was soon to be born. I have two girls, and both slept in the cradle at the foot of my wife's and my bed, for three months each. Sadly, the cradle was destroyed during a fire at my home in 1994.)

I sent an email to Shopsmith, requesting information on any woodworking classes that they offered or sponsored. They replied that they no longer have classes]


Wendall I would take my phone and email address out. Your profile should have your email address and if someone wants to contact you have them PM or email you. With your phone and email address you open yourself to spammers. Do an edit and remove them would be my advice to you.

Also are you aware that there are sawdust sessions online that go through many of the basics? Go to the SS website and click on support.

Do you have a 'Woodcraft' store or similar near by? They may have classes. Hope someone on this forum is nearby to you and available!!!:)

Finding someone who teaches woodworking using a Shopsmith is going to be a long hunt.

I would suggest that you become your own teacher. Get a copy of the woodworking lessons that Shopsmith provides and simply do each and every lesson in the order presented.

For answers to specific questions, this forum is a great source.

roswellsrelative wrote:Good morning All,

I am new to this Shopsmith forum, so please excuse me if I in any way confuse anyone as I attempt to post my question and concern.

I have owned a Shopsmith Mark V since the mid 1990s, yet have used it very infrequently (mostly the lathe). I also own the bandsaw, vacuum and a used jointer. My problem: I've recently retired and now have the opportunity to use it more, but am greatly intimidated by my lack of knowledge and experience. (My only previous experience was in 1985 when I joined a local woodworking class at a junior high school and made a cradle for my first daughter who was soon to be born. I have two girls, and both slept in the cradle at the foot of my wife's and my bed, for three months each. Sadly, the cradle was destroyed during a fire at my home in 1994.)

I sent an email to Shopsmith, requesting information on any woodworking classes that they offered or sponsored. They replied that they no longer have classes]roswell1863@gmail.com[/EMAIL]. My name is Wendell.

Thank you for your interest and (hoped for) cooperation. Happy Holidays to All!

I sent you a private email.