We Know: All About How to Buy a Lathe

About Lathes

Lathes can be used to turn blocks of wood for carving bowls, table legs, and smaller items like boxes and pens. While some woodworkers like to reverse the direction of the lathe, others don't feel it's necessary.

Some lathes come with legs or a stand. They can also be purchased separately. Make sure the lathe stand is secure enough to handle the weight of the lathe and the wood you'll be working on.

Types of Lathes

Lathes come in different sizes for different purposes:

  • Standard lathe: This is a general purpose lathe that can usually turn wood less than 12" in diameter. This makes them good for making furniture parts, including legs, handles, or railing balusters. A distance of 36" between centers is typical as is a speed of 500-2,000 RPM and between 3/4-1 HP. Cost is around $600-$1,000.
  • Heavy duty lathe: For turning bowls with diameters more than 12", or green wood, you'll want a lathe with at least 1.5 HP, a speed less than 500 RPM, 1.25" shafts, and a secure locking system. Cost is around $800-$1,000.
  • Mini-lathe: These can be portable or just small. Those who turn wood for small projects like pens and small boxes usually use a mini-lathe. For this purpose, you'll want at least 2,400 RPM, and between 1/4 and 1/2 HP. Cost is around $100-$400.
  • Midi-lathe: These are usually a little bigger than mini-lathes but are also fairly light weight and portable. Cost is around $150-$300.


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