I have a challenge to overcome and maybe you guys can help me.
I just got my lathe, grinder, tools etc and I'm out of money. I don't have a chuck because I didn't need one immediately... I can do almost all of my turning on the spur center.
Now I have a dilemma. I am experimenting with different finish combinations on many different materials. I need to apply multiple layers to small objects that require curing time in between, but don't want to leave them on my lathe for days.
My idea was to drill a small and fairly shallow hole into the base of the objects and insert a normal hex power screwdriver bit into the hole. Then I can mount it on the lathe with an inexpensive 2MT drill chuck. I can apply a coat of finish, then grab it with pliers by the drill part without touching the object itself and put it aside for curing/drying. Then I can just return it to the lathe for the next coat of finish or even just stick in in a cordless drill.
So the challenge is to drill a shallow (3/4") hole into the end grain of the wood, perfectly straight and perfectly centered, without a drill press or an expensive chuck. It's a simple question, but the reason I explained the purpose is in case I am over complicating things and there is an easier way remount fully turned objects without harming the finish.