Three Tips For Using a Wood Turning Lathe

If you learn the right way to use a wood turning lathe, it will soon become one of your favorite tools. Here are three important tips for using a lathe. They're applicable to all projects and you should keep them in mind whether you're turning a big, thick table leg or a delicate candlestick.

Good Projects Start with Good Wood

Before you even think of starting a wood turning lathe project, double-check the quality of the wood you're using. Using the right kind of wood is important, but that only one consideration.

You need to check the wood carefully to be certain it's the right size. Remember, you may lose a portion of the piece's top and bottom. That means you'll want to use pieces that are slightly longer than the project requires. There's nothing more frustrating than turning a great piece and then finding that you just can't use it.

You'll also want to inspect the wood carefully for quality. If you find deep scratches or cracks in your wood, you may end up with a final piece that will fall short of your quality standards. Check your wood for appearance, as well. Some pieces may have slightly discolored areas or grain patterns that just won't look right when you're done.

Using the Right Tool for the Job

A particular project may call for the use of a wood turning lathe, but that doesn't mean that any lathe will do. This fact becomes quite clear when you witness someone "biting off more than he or she can chew" by trying to handle an oversized piece of wood in a smaller lathe.

A pen lathe is great for a number of different jobs, but it won't be up to task for bigger projects. Likewise, smaller lathes may offer more precision and control than larger ones, making them ideal for small projects. Step back and evaluate both your project and your equipment. Are they really a good match? You should be able to answer that question in the affirmative without hesitation.

Your Hands and Eyes are Worth More than a Great Table

Every single project involving a wood turning lathe is serious. That's because you're using powerful equipment that has the potential of hurting you if not used correctly. "Safety first" may seem like a worn-out cliche, but it bears repeating when it comes to lathe work.

Be certain your wood is properly placed and is snugly fitted into the lathe. Use all necessary protective gear. Never touch a moving piece of wood with your hands--it only takes a few moments for the machine to come to stop. Don't remove a piece of wood until you've flipped the power switch to "off."

You may be excited to finish your project in record time, but it doesn't make sense to trade your safety and well-being to save a few minutes. Take the time and care to keep yourself safe.