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The lathe, a tool in woodworking, was invented around 1300 B.C. in ancient Egypt. The early concept was to shape the wood by having one person spinning the bow and another person shaping the wood. However, later lathe innovations enabled a single person to work on the wood's design, form and shape. Generally, the machine is configured to cut, form and shape wood into its useful and aesthetic products. For instance, table legs can have intricate designs through woodturning.
The modern woodturning lathe is operated or driven by a motor or electricity. However, its operational principle remains the same: the wood blank is placed between two points, which will be transformed as the spindle turns or spins. The spindle is attached in the bearings of the headstock, and is rotated by electricity or a motor.
All parts of the lathe are mounted on its bed. This includes the headstock, spindle, tailstock, motor, saddle, tool rest and tool stock barrel. The bed actually supports and keeps every component in its place. The tailstock holds one end of the wood. It can be moved and adjusted according to the wood's size. This part is connected to a sliding barrel or quill, which moves with hand wheel turns. In turn, the wood position is controlled.
The tool rest saddle or the “banjo” supports both the tool rest and tool post. It can also be moved into different positions, which is an advantage to the tool being mounted. Typically, the lathe has to be mounted into a table or bench for complete steadiness during woodturning. Some of them come with a floor standing frame, which is integrated into the system. Thus, any movement of the lathe can affect the design or form of the wood.
Take note that working with the lathe can be risky, especially when wood splinters or slivers come off the work piece. Always take precautions and wear protective clothing, including work goggles to protect your eyes.
Note: You can view a
bigger version of the wood turned items by placing your mouse curser on the
image and click. A new window will open with the larger image. When finished
viewing, just close the window and come back here to view the others.
Colour and markings may differ in
appearance slightly in your finished turning from the one's shown in the photo's
depending on wood used at the time they are turned. Each item is handcrafted
individually, so slight variances should be expected especially if ordering more
than one item. The sizes listed are approximate. They may be a couple of
millimetres taller, longer, wider or little shorter, etc.
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