Why The Ancient Woodworking Lathe Is An Essential Modern Tool

The woodworking lathe dates as far back as the ancient Egyptians, and possibly further back than that even. The earliest recorded use of a lathe is in 1300BC, when the Egyptians used a simple two-person lathe, whereby one person would turn the wood with a piece of rope and the other would use a sharp tool to shape it. Since then, the woodworking lathe has gradually developed into the (usually) mechanized tool we know today but it has the same basic principle and function. The wood turns while the cutting implement remains stationary, which allows for intricate designs to be carved.

Woodworking lathes enable the creation of products that do not simply have straight lines and that require greater cutting versatility - musical instruments, bowls, lamp bases, pool cues, curved table legs are all made using a woodworking lathe. The obvious difference between a woodworking lathe and any other woodworking tool is that the wood itself moves, spinning at a controlled speed in order that the woodworker can press a sharp cutting tool, which remains stationary, to shape it - the reverse of other woodworking tool processes.

A woodworking lathe can either be a compact, table-top design or a larger, freestanding machine that can be securely fixed to the floor. The wood to be worked on is attached to a rotating spindle and secured at the other end and is either motorized or is operated by a foot pedal. The tool rest on the bed of the lathe is designed to run parallel to the wood, enabling a steady base on which to rest the required tool, whether that be a chisel or some other cutting implement. Sandpaper is often used on the turning wood to smooth the metal cuts and create a flawless shape.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced woodworker, using a woodworking lathe is a completely different kettle of fish and requires patience and learning to master the skill. It is a tool that allows you to be incredibly creative, which is why many artisans use a woodworking lathe to help them produce beautiful, hand-crafted bowls, vases and sculptures in every design, shape and size imaginable. It is a tool that allows versatility in your work. Just as woodwork products come in different measurements, so do woodworking lathes - big or small, powerful or less so and of course with that comes a huge difference in costs. Unless you are a professional you do not need to buy top-end lathes (which can be thousands of dollars) but there are a few things you should look out for.

A woodworking lathe that overly vibrates can be incredibly frustrating, given how precise shaping needs to be. You also want to ensure that the tool rest has adequate rigidity to keep your tool firmly in place. Decide how much power you need - this will depend on the size and weight of the wood that you will putting in the lathe.

A woodworking lathe is an invaluable tool for those woodworkers looking to create something really special but they can be expensive so do your research online and find the right lathe for you.

Wood Turning Safety - Essential for Enjoyment

The practice of wood turning involves throwing wood at one's face and stopping it with sharp tools. While this is said somewhat tongue in cheek, it is none the less true. It is to hoped that the method of securing the wood on the lathe will be sound but it also true that there is less than sound wood to contend with at times, not to mention the shavings that often come directly at the turner's face and which may be accompanied by splinters of wood and pieces of bark. Obviously some rules for safety need to followed. While most are simple common sense that does not mean that all wood turners everywhere follow them. In fact, the first and most important rule of safety is simply to use common sense. If something looks dangerous it likely is. Do not do it.

1.Know your lathe well. Read the manual and learn all the parts and what they do.

2.Protect your eyes, ears and nose. Use a full face mask for turning, hearing protectors when the noise is loud, and a good dust mask for sanding.

3.Keep dangling things away from turning wood which could catch them and pull you in. Long hair should be tied back and do not wear loose clothing, jewelry or other loose objects.

4.Use an appropriate speed for the wood on the lathe. If the lathe shakes, slow it down until balance is achieved.

5.Keep all belt guards in place and make sure that the tail stock and tool rest are tight. Check them periodically as you turn.

6.Rotate the wood by hand to ensure it clears the tool rest and lathe bed before turning on the lathe.

7.Turn off the lathe before adjusting the rest.

8.Maintain a firm but comfortable grip on the tool at all times.

9.Do not reach over turning wood. Shut the lathe off first. Make sure you have a firm stance and good footing. Clean up the shavings as they get in the way.

10. Regularly maintain the lathe to ensure it is sound and in good repair.

11. Dull tools do not cut well and may slip. Sharpen often. A good thing to remember is to sharpen to keep a tool sharp, not to regrind a dull tool.

12. Use good lighting in the work area.

13. If tired, rest. Do not use the lathe when tired or when using alcohol or drugs.

14. Beware of electric shock. Electric cords need to be in good repair and the lathe should not be used under wet condition.

15. Make sure all wrenches, chuck adjusting tools and other loose objecs are removed before turning on the lathe.

16. Never leave the lathe running unattended, even if only turning around for another tool.

Remember that the work is not over until a piece is sanded and a finish is applied. Sanding will generate an amazing amount of dust that is harmful to your lungs. A simple sanding mask should be worn and if possible a dust collector used. Many popular turning finishes are safe for human consumption but others may be toxic, including the fumes. Read all directions carefully and use appropriate safety measures such as ventilation and breathing masks. Above all, be aware that people have turned wood safely for thousands of years and a few simple precautions will continue to make it safe and enjoyable.