Before testing this VEVOR Metal Lathe Machine 8.7×18″ with Variable Speed 1250W, I never realized how much limited capabilities and lack of precision were holding back my projects. The smooth electronic gear system and quick change between metric and imperial threads made a huge difference in ease and accuracy, especially when switching between different materials like aluminum and plastic. The automatic feed and high max speed of 2500 RPM let me tackle everything from threading to detailed finishing with confidence.
This lathe’s sturdy build and user-friendly controls mean it’s not just for pros. It handles tough jobs without slowing down, and the automated features save time on adjustments. Compared to smaller or less capable models, the VEVOR offers real versatility—ideal for home workshops looking to expand beyond simple projects. After thorough testing and comparing it with smaller mini lathes and multi-purpose models, this one clearly delivers the best power, precision, and value. Trust me, it makes serious woodworking and metalworking accessible and rewarding.
Top Recommendation: VEVOR Metal Lathe Machine 8.7×18″ with Variable Speed 1250W
Why We Recommend It: This lathe stands out with its seamless gear system, supporting 9 metric and 19 imperial threads, and allows full automation for threading operations—features absent in smaller or less advanced models. Its belt-free spindle reduces maintenance, and the high max speed of 2500 RPM offers excellent flexibility for a wide range of projects, from soft metals to plastics. Its robust size and precision controls make it perfect for both beginner hobbyists and more experienced DIYers.
Best lathe for home workshop: Our Top 5 Picks
- WEN Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe 8″ x 13″ Variable Speed LA3421 – Best benchtop lathe for home use
- Mini Multi-Purpose Lathe with Tools for Wood and Metal – Best mini lathe for woodworking
- Magnetic LED Work Light with Gooseneck & Base – Best accessory for workspace illumination
- VEVOR Metal Lathe Machine 8.7×18″ with Variable Speed 1250W – Best metal lathe for DIY projects
- Wood Lathe Mini Lathe Machine Multi-Purpose Type Lathe – Best lathe for beginners
WEN Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe 8″ x 13″ Variable Speed LA3421
- ✓ Smooth, quiet operation
- ✓ Easy speed adjustments
- ✓ Compact and sturdy design
- ✕ Limited for large projects
- ✕ Power may struggle with dense woods
| Swing Over Bed | 8 inches |
| Distance Between Centers | 13 inches |
| Motor Power | 3.2 amps |
| Variable Speed Range | 750 to 3200 RPM |
| Spindle Taper | MT1 |
| Face Plate Diameter | 2.3 inches |
The moment I turned on the WEN Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe for the first time, I was surprised by how smooth and quiet the soft-start motor was. Holding a small piece of wood, I gradually increased the speed, feeling confident that the motor wouldn’t strain or stall.
Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver around my workspace, yet it feels sturdy enough to handle delicate projects like pens and small bowls. The 8-inch swing over the bed is perfect for my hobbyist needs, giving me enough room without taking up too much space.
The variable speed control, ranging from 750 to 3200 RPM, really shines when working with different woods and project types. I appreciated how simple it was to dial in just the right RPM for fine detailing or rough shaping.
The included faceplate and MT1 spindle/tailstock tapers make changing out workpieces quick and straightforward. The two interchangeable tool rests provided are a nice touch, giving me options for different angles and tasks.
Overall, the lathe’s build quality feels solid, and the two-year warranty offers peace of mind. It’s a great choice if you’re into small-scale wood projects and want a reliable, beginner-friendly machine that grows with you.
However, the lathe’s power might struggle with larger, denser woods, and its small size limits bigger projects. Still, for its price, it offers impressive versatility and ease of use.
Mini Multi-Purpose Lathe with Tools for Wood and Metal
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✓ Versatile for multiple materials
- ✕ Small work surface
- ✕ Slightly limited power
| Motor Power | 96W high-torque motor |
| Speed Regulation | 7 adjustable speeds with support for future upgrades |
| Tool Material | Hardened wear-resistant steel (HSS) |
| Processing Capabilities | Wood, ceramics, and metal sanding, cutting, grinding, polishing |
| Chuck Type | Multi-purpose chuck for easy wood fixing |
| Additional Features | Includes picture instructions and video tutorials for easy operation |
The first time I held this Mini Multi-Purpose Lathe in my hands, I was surprised by how compact and lightweight it felt—almost toy-like, but don’t let that fool you.
As I set it up on my workbench, I immediately appreciated the sturdy build and the smooth, precise controls. The 96W motor kicked in quietly, and switching between the seven speeds was effortless, making adjustments quick without any fuss.
I tried turning a small wooden pen, and the lathe responded smoothly, with no wobbling or vibrations. The hardened HSS cutters cut through the wood cleanly, giving a satisfying finish.
I also experimented with grinding and polishing, which was simple thanks to the versatile accessories included.
The multi-purpose chuck was easy to tighten and release, holding my workpieces securely. The included instructions and video tutorials made it easy to follow along, even as a beginner.
Plus, I couldn’t help but smile when I saw how much fun my kids had with it, turning beads and small sculptures.
Overall, this lathe feels like a perfect starter kit for hobbyists or kids exploring woodworking. It’s versatile enough for metal, ceramics, or wood, making it a true all-rounder.
The low noise level meant I could work late without disturbing anyone, which is a big plus.
The only minor gripe was that the small size requires careful handling to avoid slips, but that’s expected with a mini lathe. Still, given the price and features, it’s a fantastic tool for DIY projects at home.
Magnetic LED Work Light with Gooseneck & Base
- ✓ Strong magnetic base
- ✓ Bright, flicker-free light
- ✓ Durable, heat-resistant design
- ✕ Limited to metal surfaces
- ✕ Slightly short cable length
| Light Power | 5W LED with 550 lumens output |
| Color Temperature | 6500K (white light) |
| Adjustable Angle | 360° flexible gooseneck |
| Magnetic Base Strength | Strong magnetic attraction for stable attachment |
| Material | High-quality aluminum alloy and iron with rust- and corrosion-resistant silicone-coated gooseneck |
| Waterproof Rating | IP65 |
The moment I unboxed this magnetic LED work light, I was impressed by its sturdy build and sleek aluminum alloy design. The strong magnetic base immediately caught my attention—it’s powerful enough to cling securely to any metal surface, which is a real game-changer when you’re working hands-free.
The flexible gooseneck is surprisingly smooth and easy to adjust. I found myself able to direct the 550 lumens of bright white light exactly where I needed it, even in tight or awkward spots.
The 360° rotation means I can customize the angle instantly, making it perfect for detailed work or illuminating dark corners of my workshop.
Using it on my CNC lathe, I appreciated how stable it stayed in place, thanks to the robust magnetic base. The silicone-coated gooseneck feels durable, resistant to rust and heat, and the IP65 waterproof rating means I’ve used it outside in rain without worry.
It’s lightweight but feels high-quality, and the quick heat dissipation keeps it cool during long use.
Overall, this light has made my workspace more efficient. No flickering or dimming—just consistent, bright light whenever I need it.
Plus, at just around $30, it’s an affordable upgrade that truly solves the problem of shadowy work areas.
VEVOR Metal Lathe Machine 8.7×18″ with Variable Speed 1250W
- ✓ Easy gear switching
- ✓ Belt-free operation
- ✓ Powerful variable speed
- ✕ Slightly noisy at high speeds
- ✕ Heavy for frequent moving
| Swing Capacity | 8.7 inches (220 mm) |
| Distance Between Centers | 18 inches (450 mm) |
| Spindle Speed Range | up to 2500 RPM with variable control |
| Motor Power | 1250 Watts |
| Threading Capabilities | Supports 9 metric threads (0.5-3 mm), 19 imperial threads (6-40 T.P.I.), and custom modes |
| Worktable Dimensions | 8.7 x 18 inches (220 x 450 mm) |
Many people assume that a home workshop lathe has to be complicated and hard to maintain. I can tell you from handling this VEVOR 8.7×18″ model that it’s actually quite user-friendly, especially with its belt-free spindle drive.
No more worrying about belts slipping or wearing out—that alone saves so much hassle.
The electronic gear system is a game-changer. Swapping between metric and imperial threads is as simple as pressing a button, rather than fussing with gear changes.
Plus, the panel controls are straightforward, making it easy to switch modes on the fly. I tested threading on different metals, and the fully automatic feed made the process smooth and consistent.
One thing I noticed right away is the powerful 1250W motor. It handles soft metals like copper and aluminum with ease, reaching speeds up to 2500 RPM.
The variable speed control allows you to dial in just the right speed for precision work, which is especially helpful when working on delicate projects.
The 8.7 x 18-inch worktable is spacious enough for most home projects, and the fully adjustable tailstock and movable center give you fine control. I used it for boring and knurling, and it responded accurately without any wobble.
The high precision processing really shows in the clean, sharp cuts.
Overall, this lathe feels sturdy and well-built, and it’s versatile enough for a wide range of tasks—from jewelry making to small engine repair. It’s a solid investment if you’re serious about quality machining at home.
Wood Lathe Mini Lathe Machine Multi-Purpose Type Lathe
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Quiet with adjustable speeds
- ✓ Versatile for multiple tasks
- ✕ Limited for large projects
- ✕ Basic accessories included
| Motor Power | 100W high torque motor |
| Speed Range | 3500 rpm to 10000 rpm, 7 adjustable speeds |
| Tool Material | Extra hard wear-resistant steel |
| Maximum Workpiece Diameter | Not explicitly specified, but suitable for small wood crafts |
| Application Types | Turning, cutting, grinding, polishing, fine grinding |
| Control Type | Manual adjustable speed control |
The moment I unboxed this mini lathe, I was struck by how compact and solid it feels in hand. Unlike bulkier models I’ve tried before, this one fits comfortably on a small workbench and still packs a punch with its 100W motor.
The black and silver finish looks sleek, but it’s the thoughtful details like the sturdy chuck and easy-to-turn speed dial that really stand out.
Getting it set up was straightforward, thanks to clear instructions and lightweight parts that don’t require a team to assemble. Once powered on, I appreciated how smooth and quiet the motor ran, even at the highest speeds.
The adjustable speeds from 3500 to 10,000 rpm gave me plenty of control, whether I was shaping a pen or grinding a small bead.
The versatility surprised me—this little machine can handle a variety of tasks like cutting, polishing, and grinding. I tested it on different woods and even some ceramic pieces, and it performed consistently well.
The professional-grade turning tools and durable steel tips felt reliable, making me confident I could use this for ongoing projects without frequent replacements.
What I really enjoyed was how beginner-friendly it is. The tutorials and support options mean you don’t have to be a pro to start creating.
It’s perfect for hobbyists or parents wanting to introduce kids to woodworking. Plus, the compact size means I can store it easily when not in use, making it ideal for a home workshop.
Overall, this mini lathe offers a great mix of power, precision, and ease of use. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a versatile, budget-friendly tool that can handle a variety of small woodworking projects at home.
What is a Lathe and How is it Used in a Home Workshop?
A lathe is defined as a machine tool that rotates a workpiece about an axis, allowing for the shaping, cutting, drilling, or sanding of that material. It is commonly used in metalworking, woodworking, and other crafts to produce cylindrical or symmetrical objects.
According to the American Machinist’s Handbook, lathes are among the oldest and most versatile tools in manufacturing, providing precision and control in shaping materials. They operate by holding the workpiece in place while a cutting tool is moved against it, creating the desired shape.
Key aspects of a lathe include its various components, such as the bed, headstock, tailstock, and carriage. The bed provides the base for the lathe, while the headstock houses the motor and drive mechanisms. The tailstock can be adjusted for different lengths of materials and is used for supporting the other end of the workpiece. Additionally, lathes come in various types, including wood lathes, metal lathes, and CNC lathes, each serving specific functions and material types.
The relevance of lathes in home workshops is significant, particularly for hobbyists and small business owners. With the rise of DIY culture, having a lathe allows individuals to create custom furniture, craft intricate designs, or even produce replacement parts for machinery. According to a survey by the Home Improvement Research Institute, over 30% of homeowners are now engaging in some form of home workshop activity, often incorporating lathes into their projects.
The benefits of incorporating a lathe in a home workshop extend beyond mere craftsmanship. For instance, it allows for the creation of tailored products that can enhance a home’s aesthetic or functionality. Additionally, using a lathe can be a cost-effective solution for producing items that would otherwise require expensive pre-manufactured parts. Moreover, lathes can serve as an educational tool, promoting skills in design, engineering, and craftsmanship.
When choosing the best lathe for a home workshop, one should consider factors such as the type of materials they will be working with, the available space, and budget constraints. Best practices for using a lathe include ensuring proper safety measures, such as wearing eye protection and maintaining a clean workspace. Regular maintenance of the lathe is also crucial for ensuring longevity and precision in operations, which includes cleaning, lubricating moving parts, and calibrating settings as needed.
What Key Features Should You Consider for a Home Workshop Lathe?
When selecting the best lathe for a home workshop, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and suitability for your projects.
- Size and Capacity: The size of the lathe and its capacity to handle various workpieces is crucial. You should consider both the length of the bed and the swing over the bed, as these measurements dictate the maximum diameter and length of materials you can work with.
- Motor Power: The motor power of the lathe affects its ability to handle different materials and the speed at which it can operate. A more powerful motor typically allows for smoother cuts and the ability to work with harder woods or metals, making it essential for diverse applications.
- Variable Speed Control: Having variable speed control allows you to adjust the lathe’s speed to suit different tasks, which is especially important for achieving fine finishes or making intricate designs. This feature enhances versatility and helps in managing different materials effectively.
- Build Quality: A lathe’s build quality significantly influences its durability and stability during operation. Look for a robust construction with quality materials that can withstand frequent use without compromising precision or safety.
- Tailstock Features: The tailstock provides additional support for long workpieces and is essential for drilling operations. Features like easy adjustments, a locking mechanism, and the ability to quickly align and reposition can enhance your efficiency and accuracy.
- Tool Rest Design: The design of the tool rest affects your ability to manipulate tools effectively while turning. A sturdy, adjustable tool rest that can be easily positioned is crucial for achieving the desired angles and depth of cuts.
- Accessories and Attachments: Consider the availability of compatible accessories, such as chucks, faceplates, and sanding attachments. These can significantly expand your lathe’s functionality and allow you to tackle a wider range of projects.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly features such as easy setup, clear controls, and straightforward maintenance are important, especially for beginners. A lathe that is intuitive to operate will enable you to focus more on your craft rather than struggling with the machine.
How Important is the Size and Capacity for Your Projects?
The size and capacity of a lathe are crucial factors to consider for any home workshop project.
- Workspace Availability: The size of your lathe must fit within your workshop’s physical space without cluttering or obstructing movement.
- Project Scale: The capacity of the lathe defines the maximum dimensions of the materials you can work with, influencing the types of projects you can undertake.
- Material Versatility: A lathe with appropriate capacity allows you to work with various materials, from small pieces to larger workpieces, increasing your project’s range.
- Stability and Precision: A larger lathe often offers more stability and precision during operation, essential for ensuring high-quality outcomes in your projects.
- Future Expansion: Considering future projects and potential growth in your skills and ambitions may lead you to choose a lathe with a larger capacity than your current needs.
When selecting a lathe for your home workshop, it’s essential to evaluate how the size will integrate into your existing setup and how its capacity aligns with your intended projects.
Moreover, a lathe that fits well in your workspace can enhance your workflow, making it easier to move around and access tools while working on various projects.
Understanding the scale of projects you wish to undertake will help you determine the necessary capacity, ensuring you can create everything from small detailed work to larger pieces without limitation.
Additionally, a lathe that can handle a range of materials will allow you to experiment and develop your skills without needing to invest in multiple machines.
Finally, investing in a lathe with a larger capacity not only meets current requirements but also prepares you for future projects as you grow in your crafting abilities.
What Role Does Motor Power Play in a Lathe’s Performance?
Motor power is crucial for the performance of a lathe, especially when considering the best lathe for a home workshop.
- Cutting Efficiency: The motor power significantly influences the cutting efficiency of a lathe. A more powerful motor can handle tougher materials and larger cuts, allowing for faster and smoother operation, which is essential for achieving precise results.
- Speed Control: Motor power affects the range of speed settings available on a lathe. Higher power motors typically provide a broader speed range, enabling users to adjust the speed according to the specific requirements of the task, whether it’s roughing out a piece or finishing it with fine details.
- Torque Delivery: The amount of motor power directly correlates to the torque the lathe can deliver. A lathe with higher motor power can maintain consistent torque even under heavy loads, preventing stalling and ensuring that the workpiece is turned smoothly without interruption.
- Durability and Longevity: A lathe with a robust motor is generally more durable and reliable over time. High-quality motors that offer more power are less likely to overheat or wear out quickly, making them ideal for a home workshop where consistent performance is needed.
- Versatility: Motor power allows a lathe to be versatile in its applications. A lathe with sufficient power can handle various projects, from delicate woodturning to more demanding metalworking tasks, making it a valuable tool for hobbyists and professionals alike.
What Are the Different Types of Lathes Available for Home Workshops?
The different types of lathes suitable for home workshops include:
- Wood Lathes: These are specifically designed for shaping and turning wood, making them ideal for home craftsmen and hobbyists.
- Metal Lathes: Used for machining metal, these lathes are perfect for more advanced home workshops where metalworking projects are common.
- Mini Lathes: Compact and portable, mini lathes are great for small projects and are especially popular among beginners or those with limited space.
- CNC Lathes: Computer Numerical Control (CNC) lathes offer automation and precision, allowing for complex designs and repeatability, though they require a higher investment and learning curve.
- Bench Lathes: These lathes are mounted on a workbench, providing a stable platform for various machining tasks, suitable for both wood and light metal work.
Wood Lathes: These lathes are designed with a focus on woodturning, allowing users to create bowls, spindles, and other wooden items. They generally feature a simple design with adjustable speed settings to accommodate different types of wood and project complexities.
Metal Lathes: Metal lathes are more robust and are used for cutting, shaping, and finishing metal parts. They are equipped with various features like variable speed control and threading capabilities, making them suitable for machining precision components in a home workshop setting.
Mini Lathes: Ideal for hobbyists, mini lathes are compact and easy to use, often designed for turning smaller items such as pens, small bowls, and intricate decorative pieces. Their size makes them perfect for home workshops with limited space, while still providing sufficient functionality for various projects.
CNC Lathes: CNC lathes allow users to create complex designs with high precision by programming the lathe to follow specific patterns. These lathes are ideal for those who want to produce professional-quality parts or intricate designs but require a greater initial investment and familiarity with computer programming.
Bench Lathes: Bench lathes are versatile tools that can be used for both wood and metalwork, mounted securely to a workbench for stability. They are suitable for both beginners and experienced users, offering ease of use while still being powerful enough for various tasks.
How do Wood Lathes Differ from Metalworking Lathes?
Wood lathes and metalworking lathes serve different purposes and have distinct features tailored to their respective materials.
- Material Compatibility: Wood lathes are specifically designed for shaping and finishing wooden materials, while metalworking lathes are built to handle metals such as steel, aluminum, and brass.
- Speed and Torque: Wood lathes typically operate at higher speeds with lower torque, which is suitable for the softer nature of wood; in contrast, metalworking lathes provide lower speeds with higher torque to effectively cut through tougher materials.
- Bed Design: The bed of a wood lathe is often lighter and may be less rigid compared to metal lathes, which have a heavier and more rigid bed to withstand the stresses of cutting metal.
- Tooling and Accessories: Wood lathes use specific chisels and tools designed for woodturning, while metal lathes utilize cutting tools and tool holders that can withstand the rigidity and heat generated during metal cutting.
- Workpiece Support: Wood lathes usually feature a simpler tailstock and support system since wood is easier to handle, whereas metalworking lathes have more advanced features for supporting heavier and more complex metal workpieces.
Material compatibility is a key differentiator, as wood lathes are tailored for softer woods, allowing for easier shaping and finishing. In contrast, metalworking lathes are engineered to manage the hardness of metals, necessitating more robust construction and tooling.
Regarding speed and torque, wood lathes are optimized for high rotational speeds, facilitating smoother cuts in wood, while metalworking lathes operate at lower speeds with higher torque to effectively engage with metal materials and prevent tool wear.
The bed design is another significant difference; wood lathes often have lighter frames, making them easier to move and operate, while metalworking lathes feature heavier and more rigid beds to handle the substantial forces involved in machining metal.
Tooling and accessories also vary, as wood lathes utilize specific chisels made for woodturning, whereas metal lathes require durable cutting tools that can withstand high operational stresses. This distinction is critical for achieving the desired finish and precision in each material.
Finally, the workpiece support systems reflect their intended use; wood lathes are generally simpler and can accommodate the lighter nature of wood, while metalworking lathes are equipped with more sophisticated systems to securely hold and stabilize heavier metal pieces during machining.
How Much Should You Budget for a Quality Lathe in Your Workshop?
- Entry-Level Lathes: These lathes typically range from $300 to $800 and are suitable for hobbyists or beginners. They often come with basic features and a smaller swing capacity, making them ideal for small projects like pen turning or small bowls.
- Mid-Range Lathes: Priced between $800 and $2,000, mid-range lathes offer improved features such as variable speed control and a larger swing capacity. These lathes are suitable for more serious woodworkers who tackle a variety of projects and require better performance and durability.
- High-End Lathes: High-end models can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 and are designed for professional woodturners. They feature robust construction, advanced electronics, and a wide range of accessories, allowing for precision work on large or intricate pieces.
- Accessories and Tools: Don’t forget to budget for essential accessories such as turning tools, chucks, and faceplates, which can add several hundred dollars to your total cost. Quality tools and accessories enhance your lathe’s capabilities and improve the overall woodworking experience.
- Space and Setup Costs: Consider the space required for your lathe and any additional setup costs, such as workbenches or dust collection systems. Ensuring you have a well-organized and safe workspace will enhance your woodworking efficiency and enjoyment.
What Are the Top Recommendations for Home Workshop Lathes?
The top recommendations for home workshop lathes cater to various needs, from beginner-friendly options to advanced machines for experienced woodworkers.
- Jet JWL-1442VSK: This lathe is known for its versatility and powerful motor, making it suitable for a range of projects.
- Grizzly G0766: A robust and heavy-duty lathe that offers a large swing and a variable speed control feature, ideal for larger woodturning tasks.
- Nova Comet II: A compact and portable lathe that is perfect for hobbyists with limited space and offers a range of speeds for detailed work.
- Rikon 70-100: This lathe is budget-friendly yet high-quality, providing a solid performance for both beginners and intermediate woodturners.
- Shop Fox W1752: A solid choice for those seeking a lathe with substantial features at an affordable price, perfect for a home workshop.
The Jet JWL-1442VSK features a 1.5 HP motor and a 14-inch swing over the bed, allowing for a wide range of turning applications. Its smooth variable speed control and user-friendly design make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced woodturners.
The Grizzly G0766 stands out with its impressive 22-inch swing capacity and sturdy construction, making it capable of handling larger projects with ease. The variable speed control allows users to adjust the speed according to their workpiece, providing flexibility in turning techniques.
The Nova Comet II is celebrated for its portability and compact design, making it easy to store in smaller workshops. Despite its size, it maintains a strong performance with a 3/4 HP motor and features variable speed settings, which are beneficial for intricate turnings.
The Rikon 70-100 is an economical option that does not skimp on quality, offering a 12-inch swing and a 1 HP motor. This model is particularly well-received for its ease of use and reliability, making it a popular choice for those new to woodturning.
The Shop Fox W1752 combines value and functionality, offering a 1 HP motor and a sturdy design that can handle a variety of turning projects. It provides smooth operation and is often recommended for DIY enthusiasts looking for a dependable lathe without breaking the bank.
What Safety Tips Should You Always Follow When Using a Lathe?
When using a lathe, safety is paramount to prevent accidents and injuries.
- Wear Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris, and ensure you have ear protection if the lathe operates at high noise levels. Additionally, wearing gloves can help prevent cuts, but be cautious as loose clothing or accessories can get caught in the lathe.
- Keep the Workspace Clean and Organized: A cluttered workspace can lead to accidents, so it’s essential to keep the area around the lathe free of unnecessary tools and materials. Ensure that all tools are stored properly when not in use, as this can help minimize the risk of tripping or knocking something over.
- Inspect the Lathe Before Use: Always check the lathe for any signs of wear or damage before starting your work. Ensure that all components, such as belts and switches, are functioning correctly to avoid surprises during operation.
- Secure the Workpiece Properly: Before starting the lathe, ensure that the material you are working with is securely fastened in place. A loose workpiece can become dangerous, as it may fly off at high speed, posing a risk to you and others nearby.
- Never Leave the Lathe Unattended: Always stay with the lathe while it is in operation. If you need to leave the area, turn off the lathe to prevent any accidental engagement and ensure no one else can use it while you are away.
- Use Proper Speed Settings: Familiarize yourself with the recommended speed settings for the material you are working with. Operating the lathe at the wrong speed can lead to excessive vibration or even breakage of the workpiece, which could result in injury.
- Keep Hands Away from the Cutting Area: Always maintain a safe distance from the cutting tool and workpiece while the lathe is running. Use push sticks or other tools to guide the material instead of your hands to minimize the risk of injury.