I had my first significant exposure to the lathe this weekend in a class at the local Woodcraft. I'm a novice woodworker, but my experience with wood turning to date has been zero. The practice has always intriqued me so I finally took an opportunity to try it myself.

I loved it!

It looks easy... but that was before I made my first cut. We started out roughing some green crapwood with the gouge, then spent time working with the skew chisel. The "peeling cut" gave me some trouble, but I was cutting beads and coves by the end of class. It's a very satisfying experience.

I'm impressed with the amount of skill and finesse that it requires. My respect for all you turners has soared! If feels like I could do this forever without perfecting the technique. It seems really challenging, yet rewarding. I now have a new appreciation for turnings!