New to WoodTurning

Being a novice when I first became interested in woodturning, choosing the right woodturning lathe, was not easy.  I made mistakes with the machinery and tools I bought.  Having now gained a bit more knowledge through experience, I will be suggesting some tips and ideas to help save money and frustration. 

Second-hand or new?

My first buy was an old second-hand wood lathe, which I bought without researching properly.  I soon realised that as I was unable to source any parts needed for that machine.  I had not made a good choice.

Hobby or Business Adventure?

I would suggest researching on the internet and viewing the kinds of wood lathes that are available.  Top of your priority list may be, whether you want woodturning to be a hobby or more of a business venture. This will determine what price range you could be aiming for.

Small, Medium or Large lathes

There are small, medium and large lathes available according to your needs. Using sites offering new and second-hand lathes should be your first port of call. Gather as much information as you can to make an informed decision. 

Video Watching

The representative demonstrating the wood lathe may be promoting a particular make of wood lathe because they are being sponsored.  So keep an open mind and gather as much information as you can.

All that is being offered in a sale, may not be suitable

When visiting online auction sites, especially second-hand sites, you will see that many sellers include chucks, tools and other bits and pieces to encourage a sale. Try to gauge if these extras will be an advantage to you, or they may not be the tools you need, making the purchase not as cost-effective as first invisiged. 

I am sure that you will want to buy everything brand new, I did, but it is not always necessary to do so at the beginning, giving you time to gain experience.

What country do you live in?

Another priority on your list should be the country you live in and where you are buying your lathe.  When I was looking at the lathes on offer, one of the first things I noticed was that the connecting plug was not always in view. 

Why the plug? 

Each country has different wiring and amperage. I was contemplating buying, but after asking a few questions, I was informed that the lathe could only be used in America.

So take time to view the lathe you are interested in and whether it is going to be suitable for your country’s wiring system.  It could be an expensive mistake.

Could there be import taxes?

Now that the UK is not in the E.U. any items posted to E.U. countries from the UK, in most cases, will be liable for import tax.  I do not claim to understand how this duty is calculated.   Online sites will show you the import duty calculated according to where you live.  I have had experience of this problem, having to pay import duty at my door before they would hand over my parcel.  So be aware and make your enquiries.  It is up to you to discover if there are any extra costs involved.

This blog, choosing the right woodturning lathe

This is my guide in helping you on your journey regarding the purchase of a wood-turning lathe.

Click the link below for a few ideas on choosing a lathe

https://youtu.be/ILhBm_lO5EQ?si=yADKFIcW4bl-qbsq

If you need help with anything I have covered in this blog please feel free to contact me via email: [email protected]  

My next blog will cover lathe parts and names. 

Keep visiting my website for continuous updates.  Enjoy!!