A lathe is a machine tool that rotates a workpiece about an axis of rotation to perform operations like cutting, sanding, knurling, drilling, facing, and turning, with tools that are applied to the workpiece to create an object with radial symmetry. Examples of objects that can be produced on a lathe include bowls, baseball bats, pens, table and chair legs, balusters, spars such as booms, gaffs, and masts, candlesticks, cue sticks, and musical instruments (especially woodwinds). The lathe was very important tool in the Industrial Revolution. It is known as the mother of machine tools, as it was the first machine tool that led to the invention of other machine tools.
In this brief evening class, learn all about how a lathe works and its range of use from an experienced and expert woodworker who will demonstrate its properties and applications. And, since it is one of the most dangerous shop tools, the instructor will also provide tips for how to use a lathe safely and effectively.