Baileigh Industrial WL-1218VS, Operator'S Manual, Page: 33 / 52

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SPINDLE TURNING
Working with any material that is attached to the lathe centers is called a spindle turning. This is
the principal type of wood turning (chair and table legs, lamp stems, etc.) The turning of
spindles can be done with either a scraping or cutting technique.
The cutting technique, by virtue of faster wood removal and a cleaner surface, is the preferred
method.
Turning Tips:
•
When turning the lathe ON, stand to the side of the spinning direction until the lathe reaches
full speed and you can verify that the lathe will not throw the workpiece.
•
Use the slowest spindle speed when rough cutting.
•
Select the right speed for the size of workpiece you are turning. Use slower speeds for large
workpieces (4" diameter and over); use the middle range speeds for medium sized
workpieces (2" to 4" diameter); and use faster speeds for small sized workpieces (under 2" in
diameter).
•
Make sure the turning tool is against the tool rest the ENTIRE time that the turning tool is in
contact with the workpiece.
•
Learn the correct techniques for each tool you will use. If you are unsure, read books or
magazines about lathe techniques and seek training from experienced users.
•
Turn the lathe OFF immediately if the workpiece vibrates excessively. Check to make sure
the workpiece is centered and balanced. Remove the workpiece and trim excess waste off
corners with a bandsaw or table saw to reduce vibration. Make sure the workpiece is
securely attached in the setup.
Centering the Work
Wood stock for any spindle turning should be
approximately square, and the ends should be square
with the sides. Two common methods of determining the
center are shown.
In the figure shown; a distance a little more or a little
less than one-half the width of the stock is set off from
each of the four sides. The small square set off in the
center can then be used in marking the true center.