So we started off with a CAD file, this one is made in Graphite.
Then we used a laser cutter to cut it out onto 3mm MDF.
Showing the pieces cut from the laser cutter and the final product after turning.
That’s not me in the pic but it’s pretty much the same object that I turned on the lathe today. Here’s a few things I learn’t that hopefully I won’t forget by writing them down.
- Cut diagonals into the end of the job to identify the centre point and give the spindle something to bite into.
- Mount into lathe.
- Adjust tool rest so it sits slightly above the centre.
- Adjust lathe speed.
- Slow Speed – Used for balancing and larger jobs.
- Fast Speed – Used for small jobs.
Technique is all about finding the right cutting angle as it varies between tools.
Sanding / Finishing
We worked our way down from 80 grit to 400 grit sandpaper then polished with the saw dust we created.
The final product.