Basic Lathe learning?

kalynzoo · Post by **kalynzoo** » Fri Feb 05, 2010 7:16 pm

Looking for a book or a guide?
I finally decided I would like to try my hand at turning. First I watched a couple of YouTubes, grabbed a 6in 2x2 and sharpened my tools...disappointing.
Went to a 4 hour class at Woodcraft. Very informative and helpful. Was told that my "pine" 2x2 was not the best practice material, and I received guidance and encouragement. Today after finishing some real projects, I set up the lathe, found a 8inch maple 2x2 and started making spindles.
OK, so this worked rather well. I created a rather nice wavy stick but at least it is smooth and symmetrical. I feel I have all the chisels sharpened accurately, and I am comfortable with my hand position.
So where do I go from here?
I was thinking of a step by step project guide for a baby rattle.
On the 13th Woodcraft will have a demo on pen turning, I plan to attend.
But any suggestions from the group would be most appreciated.
Thanks in advance. Gary

jbooher · Post by **jbooher** » Fri Feb 05, 2010 8:52 pm

You could start by purchasing Keith Rowley's book- Woodturning: A Foundation Course. It is a very good book on learning how to use your tools. Woodcraft should have it.

As for baby rattles, do a internet search on Woodturning baby rattle and you will find several.

Master Keith Rowley's ten rules and you will find turning can be safe and enjoyable.

James

RobertTaylor · Post by **RobertTaylor** » Fri Feb 05, 2010 9:35 pm

there is some very useful info in your shopsmith "bible"

beeg · Post by **beeg** » Fri Feb 05, 2010 10:00 pm

Also here's another source for info. The baby rattle is towards the bottom of the list.

http://www.nickcookwoodturner.com/articles.htm

cv3 · Post by **cv3** » Fri Feb 05, 2010 10:07 pm

I am not a real active wood turner. I do make a pens and I enjoy doing that. When I first got into turning I started with small bowls. They were fun to make and my wife could always fine a use for them. I found there was a wood turning club here in Mobile area and I went to some of there meeting I met some great guys and have learned a lot with their help. I know you could find a group in your area on the net. One of them also recommended Keith Rowley's book, which I got. I have found that most clubs or guilds are a great resource for learning. And for the most part every one seems glad to help.

------------------------ · Fri Feb 05, 2010 10:10 pm

One of my first turning projects was a wooden mallet. Easy to make and very useful.

horologist · Post by **horologist** » Fri Feb 05, 2010 10:33 pm

jbooher wrote:You could start by purchasing Keith Rowley's book- Woodturning: A Foundation Course. It is a very good book on learning how to use your tools. Woodcraft should have it.

James

Gary,

I was going to suggest this book, but will settle for seconding the recommendation.

Troy

a1gutterman · Post by **a1gutterman** » Fri Feb 05, 2010 11:50 pm

mark-b wrote:One of my first turning projects was a wooden mallet. Easy to make and very useful.

Do we want to know what you use it for?

------------------------ · Fri Feb 05, 2010 11:56 pm

A hammer, duct tape and bailing wire--A Handyman is born

robinson46176 · Post by **robinson46176** » Sat Feb 06, 2010 7:02 am

mark-b wrote:A hammer, duct tape and bailing wire--A Handyman is born

The next level is J B Weld and Shoe-Goo.

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