?'s On Getting Started in Turning

[John Buzzurro]

I've been doing flat work for about 3 years now, but recently started a wooden gear clock project which requires some turned parts. I figured that this would be a good excuse to get into turning. The parts are not large, maybe 8" max length (see links below for photos). I'd also be interested in turning pens at some point, and maybe small columns for mantle clocks. Shop space is going to be a very important consideration. Cost is not a major consideration.

Anyway, I was thinking about the Jet 1014VSI mini-lathe. I read some good reviews on it, but would be happy to entertain ideas on other mini-lathes. One of the things I really need help on is knowing what else beside the lathe are must-haves to get going. A checklist would be helpful. Part of that is what types of chisels, and how the heck to you sharpen them? Finally, recommendations on any good boods/DVDs on turning would be appreciated.

Regards,
John

http://home.comcast.net/~bzwoodworx/temp/arbors.jpg (http://home.comcast.net/%7Ebzwoodworx/temp/arbors.jpg)

http://home.comcast.net/~bzwoodworx/temp/pulley.jpg (http://home.comcast.net/%7Ebzwoodworx/temp/pulley.jpg)

[Kevin McPeek]

It's hard to go wrong with the Jet mini. I know many of us started on that lathe and even though we have graduated to bigger lathes the mini still has a place in the shop.

Everybody will tell you every other brand is just as good, and they may be just fine, so look where you can get the best deal.

If you are like most people who start turning all of you flat work stuff will be there just to serve as blank preparation tools and or storage.

Anyway, lathes to look at (in my opinion)- Jet mini, Rikon midi, Delta midi, Steel City midi. Steer clear of the cheap Chinese stuff off Ebay. One thing to keep in mind is availability of accessories, you want a common thread on the spindle and MT2, which most of the main stream lathes have.

Good luck and welcome to the darkside.

[Bill Bolen]

Ohhhh! I hear the screams of another one falling into this botomless pit! The landing is not too painfull, except on the walett. The jet vs is a great little lathe. I've had one for about 2 years and you can do a lot on it. When you buy her, the first things you will need are a comfortable face mask and a decent pair of safety glasses. After roughing out I rarly feel the need for the face shiel but always wear eye protection! A decent chuck if you intend to do any faceplate style work. Bowls, or lidded boxes. I'm sure you will get a bunch of advice here on chisels. Once you've sharpened a few times it will become second nature to you. Depending on what you turn a wolverine type system may be needed to hold those new chisels at the correct angle. The woodcraft grinder is probably the best buy out there. Has the correct wheels installed on it. Most of the others will force you to find a source for the correct wheels before very long. The white wheels seem to be the preferred system for HSS tools. I'll let those better qualified fill in the remainder of the buying advice but let me say welcome to the vortex! It is a rewarding fall!...Bill...