Is there a "beginners guide" to using a lathe in this forum?

[Greg Masset]

I've recently inherited quite a few tools and one is a Shopsmith that Dad usually used as a lathe, since he also had most of the other accessories as stand alones. I've used it before but never with grand results. Using it yesterday I was thinking about the height of the tool rest- I'm sure there is a proper spot for it to sit. I've been trying different spots but would feel safer knowing instead of guessing.
Very impressive work displayed on the posts that I've looked over.
Thanks for your time- Greg

[Dwight Rutherford]

I think your best bet as a beginner is to contact a local turning club so you can get some hands on help. If you go to the AAW web-site there is a feature where you enter your location and clubs in the area are displayed. Most clubs have a mentoring program to help new turners.

[Col Smith]

I agree with that....if at all possible.

You won't regret it I can assure you.

Col

[Geoff Whaling]

Keith Rowley's book "Woodturning - A Foundation Course" is well worth getting. Also check out South Auckland Woodturners Guild http://www.sawg.org.nz/tipsnjigs/ their "Beginners Guide to Wood Turning" is also very good.

[James Tibbetts]

Greg I see this is your first post so welcome! Finding a local turning club is an excellent start. You might consider adding your location in your posts. There maybe another member nearby willing to spend some time with you on the basics.
But be warned; if you turn for an hour and don't walk away you are probably hooked for life!

[Eric Schatz]

Keith Rowley's book "Woodturning - A Foundation Course" is well worth getting. Also check out South Auckland Woodturners Guild http://www.sawg.org.nz/tipsnjigs/ their "Beginners Guide to Wood Turning" is also very good.

Awesome site. I've learned things from there already!

[Greg Masset]

Thanks Guys- I'll check those spots and see if there's a club as well.

I updated my info a bit to include location. I'm in the High Desert of Central Washington state.

[Greg Masset]

Well- no clubs listed within a hundred miles.. I'll work through it.

[Geoff Whaling]

Awesome site. I've learned things from there already!

two sites I found very helpful many years ago was http://www.laymar-crafts.co.uk/ http://www.turningtools.co.uk/ Good to see them still going.


Brian Cliffords E-book may be just what you are after. http://www.turningtools.co.uk/wtintro/wtintro.html

[John Conklin]

Go to Youtube and search, you'll find enough videos to keep you watching for quite awhile. There is some chaff to sort thru but many good turners giving good info for free. Good luck!

[Stan Smith]

There is no "set in and forget it" for a tool rest. There are many variables such as size and type of wood, lathe speed, grain, type of tools, etc.. I learned from my own experience...and watching others. Good luck.