WOOD TURNING

PSI TurnCrafter Commander VS-12

Recently I got a present of a wood turning lathe from my daughter. My daughter knew that I liked wood turning, particularly making pens. So when she chose a gift for me she chose the PennState industries TurnCrafter Commander 12″ variable speed lathe.

What is a Lathe?

So what exactly is a wood turning lathe? Well, a Wood turning lathe is a woodworking tool which allows you to create rounded or cylindrical shapes. Essentially, you mount a piece of wood on the machine, between two points called centers. The Centers hold the wood steady while it is rapidly turned by the motor. While the wood is spinning a chisel shaves away wood to create different shapes.

What can you make?

I enjoy making things with wood. Using a Wood lathe allows me to make many different types of things such as bowls, vases, lamps, spindles, and ornaments. One thing I’m particularly interested in making with the Wood Lathe is custom pens. Making pens is easy and doesn’t require a huge investment in equipment. Pen are a joy to use, fun to make and a pleasure to give as gifts.

I intend to provide a lot of information about my adventures in wood turning over the next few weeks.

Toolpost rest, Tail Stock, Headstock, lathe bed.

I mounted the Headstock onto the Lathe Bed.

The kit came with two tool posts

The adjustable tailstock slides in place.