4.2 Inserting an object to print upon: Setting the tailstock position & centering the object
When preparing to print upon an object (a literal or figurative
“egg”), the tailstock needs to be in the right position to hold it
in place.
Loosen the quick release, so that the tailstock can move (
A
).
Observe the positions indicated by the two arrows: the abrasive
surface of the egg coupler and the back side of the tail coupler.
Using your object (“egg”) for reference, move the tailstock so
that the distance between these two positions is equal to the
length of the object (
B
). Set aside the object, and lock the tail-
stock in place (
C
).
A
B
C
The tailstock should point in a straight line towards the headstock. There is some “play” in the
slot, so sight from the tailstock to the headstock (
D
) and correct the tailstock angle if neces-
sary.
With the tailstock in position, you can now insert the object. Pull back on draw knob to make
room, and then center the object so that it is gripped between the egg and tail couplers.
For best results, objects to draw upon should be clean, dry, and
at room temperature
. (See end
notes 1 and 2.) And for eggs, we generally prefer to orient the “wide” end towards the egg
coupler. (See end note 3.)
Rotate the tail and egg couplers to manually spin the object once or twice (
E
), and see how it
wobbles in place when you do so. At this point you can fine-tune its centering; an “egg” that is
well centered between the couplers will wobble very little as it turns. (If the couplers do not turn
freely, double check that the motors are not powered on.)
D
E
