Using a small wood lathe can be a great way to learn how to work with wood and make your own unique items. Besides, there is also the possibility of making some money with your lathe!
Can you make money with a wood lathe?
A wood lathe can be used to make any number of things. You can use the lathe to make everything from deck chairs and beer totes to tongs and chopsticks. You can also sell your creations on eBay or Etsy.
One of the easiest and quickest ways to earn some money is to start selling your wood turning projects on eBay or Etsy. You can also hold sales in your backyard or at craft fairs. These events are a great way to promote your work and advertise your skills.
You might be surprised to learn that you can make money with a small lathe. In fact, there are a wide variety of wood turning projects that you can create and sell.
Types of wood lathes
Wood lathes are a fun way to do many different types of woodworking. They also make a lot of tasks a whole lot easier. However, they can be a bit dangerous to use, especially if you don’t know what you’re doing.
A wood lathe can be a bit intimidating to someone who’s never used one. The first thing to do is figure out what type of project you’re going to use it for. Then, you can choose the best wood lathe for your needs.
There are three basic sizes of wood lathes. The mini, mid and full-size varieties all have their advantages and disadvantages. The best choice depends on your budget and available space.
Variable speed
If you have a passion for woodturning and are looking for a reliable and durable small lathe, you will want to consider one of the following models. While these lathes are not as powerful as their bigger cousins, they do come with several features that you might not find on other smaller lathes.
Variable speed lathes use a variety of methods to control the spindle’s speed. Some models require manual adjustment while others can be easily set with a knob or dial. In addition to varying the speed of the lathe, many models also have a reversing feature.
The Nova 71118 Comet II DR Midi Lathe is a great choice if you’re looking for a machine that can deliver speeds up to 4,000 RPM. This model has a swing of 12 inches and a tool rest that measures six inches. It can hold work pieces up to eight inches in diameter.
Encasing and protecting your lathe
Encasing and protecting your small wood lathe is essential. It helps you to make sure your equipment stays in top condition. It also makes the process a lot safer.
The best way to protect your equipment is to ensure that you always use the correct tool for the job. If you don’t, you could end up with a big chunk of wood falling off your lathe. To avoid this, you should practice with spare stock.
You should also consider getting some form of face shield. It is a good idea to get an ANSI approved pair, as they can help you prevent injuries. Besides, it can help you protect your eyes from flying debris.
Making cue sticks
A small wood lathe for making cue sticks is not a necessary accessory for hobbyists. Nevertheless, if you are interested in building cues, there are some tools that will make your job easier.
If you’re a full-time cuemaker, you’ll need a 12X36 or 13X40 lathe. You’ll also need a CNC mill. The latter is a machine that allows you to cut out intricate designs with a minimum amount of effort.
Luckily, there’s a whole family of cuemakers to choose from. If you’re looking for a quality American made cue, Schmelke Cues might be your best bet. They’re known for their exotic full splice one and two piece cues. They’re also affordable.
Baseball bats
If you’re a baseball enthusiast or a hobbyist who wants to try your hand at making wood bats, there are a few things you need to know. You’ll need a lathe and chisels, but you also need to be sure you’re following the right procedures.
First, you need to be sure you have the correct wood. You can purchase blanks online or at home improvement stores. Maple and birch are good options for a baseball bat. Besides their durability, they are also dense and offer some flexibility. However, you should be aware that maple can become moist over time.
You’ll need to measure the diameter of the barrel and the handle. You can do this by marking the handle with a couple of inch increments.