You are looking to make small, high-quality tools from wood? A wood lathe can create a variety of tools, including bowls, bowls, fishing lures, and bottle stoppers. It can also be used to make pens, bowls and other small items. If you are interested, you can create some amazing tools and gadgets for your business or personal use.
So that you get off to a good start, we have compiled a list of top wood lathe options. It is not worth wasting your time or money just to get started only to discover that the lathe you have chosen is not suitable for the work you are doing. Remember that you should consider your personal preferences and the projects you are working on.
It is important to consider the type of project, how big they are, what space you have, and how much money your budget allows. To help you understand each feature better, we have created a list with the top options so that you can start right away.
Rikon Power Tools Mini Lathe
This lathe is small and compact so it’s a great option for those looking for a smaller motor. It measures 25 cm x 46cm and can produce small, but high-quality projects. The system has a heavy, cast iron bead and a headstock/tailstock that help reduce vibrations.
The machined components and bed ensure that the device is in perfect alignment every time you use it. Its sleek design and stylish color are a bonus. But it’s everything else you will remember. There are 5 speed options available that can do just about everything, from boring barrel holes to shaping or finishing.
The package includes a tool rest, knockout bar, wrenches, and a live center. Its moderate weight means it is easy to transport if needed, but it is sturdy enough that it won’t move while you are using it. This lathe is great for small projects.
Fox W1704 On Sale
This benchtop lathe provides 1/3 HP. This lathe can provide enough power to complete most projects. It also offers 2 amp, 110V single phase, 60Hz. You can do a variety of projects quickly and efficiently with a 30 cm distance between the centers and a 20 cm swing-over bed.
Two tool rests are included so that you can place your items without worrying about where they will be placed. Cast iron gives you infinite possibilities for variable speed control. This means you will have more control over what you do personally, without needing to adjust your work to suit the machine.
It weighs in at 23 kg. This unit is moderately heavy and will not move around if you need it to. The spindle speed is between 700 and 3200 RPM and it measures 23 3/20 cm by 5 so you’ll have plenty of space in your workshop.
WEN 3420 Wood Lathe
Although the variable speed option is very small at 20 cm by 30 cm it still provides plenty of power and flexibility for any work you do. You have greater control over the projects you are working on, as it can rotate between 750 to 3200 rotations per hour. The faceplate is 13 cm long and can be used to turn bowls or any other item that does not require a spindle.
This system can work with pieces up to 20cm wide and 30cm long. It has a 2A motor, MT1 spindle, tailstock taper and a tailstock spindle. You can even use it with 2 interchangeable workrests. The system comes with a 2-year warranty, so you can be sure it will last.
The soft start motor increases the system’s capabilities and safety. It is lightweight at just 20 kg. This system includes everything you need including a simple lever clamping system, tailstock cup center center, headstock spur center and knockout rod. It also comes with a 13 cm faceplate.
Facts and Features
- 13 cm faceplate for projects that are not spindle-based
- 20 cm x 30 cm total size
- 750 3200 RPM
- 2 interchangeable work rests
- 2-year warranty
- Soft start motor
- 20 kg. Total weight
Jet JWL 1221VS
This option is slightly larger at 30 cm by 53 cm, but it will still fit in your space. You will have a lot of options for projects thanks to its excellent speed control. It can run between 60-3600 RPM, so you can do just about any job you want.
It is very easy to change from forward to reverse. The innovative belt tension system, which uses a ratchet-style belt design, keeps it running exactly the way you want. Although this device is heavier than the others, it offers a great turning experience and is completely within your control.
You can also rely on the 5-year warranty to ensure that the lathe is of high quality. This warranty is unbeatable.
Facts and Features
- 30 cm x 53 cm total size
- Variation of 60 3600 RPM
- 5-year warranty
- To reverse the process, simply smooth forward
- 59 kg. Total weight
- Ratchet style belt tension system
GoPlus Wood Turning Lathe
This is the most powerful option we have when it comes wood lathes. This lathe measures 36 cm x 101 cm. You’ll have more freedom and flexibility when working on larger projects. The motor is powered by a HP motor with 4 speeds and a swing-over bed of 36 cm.
You can get seeds in a variety of sizes: 1100, 1600 and 2300 respectively. It weighs in at 25 kg. It is lightweight at only 25 kg and easy to transport. This device will turn almost anything. You’ll also love its ability to handle small and fine tasks as well as larger projects.
This is an excellent option for those just starting out or those who have worked with these tools for a while. This tool is moderately priced, and you can attach a variety attachments to enhance your options.
Facts and Features
- 36 cm x 101 cm
- HP motor
- 4-speed settings
- 1100 3400 RPM
- 25 kg. Total weight
- Excellent for advanced or beginner users
- Moderately affordable
- 36 cm swinging over bed
Mophorn 10×46 Cm Wood Lathe
Mophorn’s wood lathe packs a punch. The wood lathe comes equipped with a powerful motor of 550W and digital speed readings to let you know exactly how much power you are using. You can also use the wood lathe with a 25 cm swing-over bed and 46 cm distance between the centers to work with multiple woods.
This wood lathe is made for bench tops and has rubber feet at the base of the cast iron casting. This ensures that the machine is stable on different surfaces. Its gross weight is slightly more than 39kg, so it’s not something you can move immediately. It is possible to store it in storage if you have a garage.
Things We Like
- The motor produces up to 550W power
- You can run between 500 to 3,800 RPMs and receive a digital reading
- Somewhat portable
Things we don’t like
- A size adapter will be needed for your chuck.
- It is a bit heavy to lift and move quickly
Delta Industrial 46-460 Variable-Speed Midi Lathe
This Delta wood lathe has a larger swing capacity. The 32 cm swing length is said to be the highest in the class by Delta. The drive spindle measures 3 cm.
Woodworkers will appreciate the three-pulley speed range of this lathe. The patented belt tensioning system allows customers to change speeds quickly. You can also use the forward and reverse functions to get a smoother finish than other lathes.
JET JWL Variable Speed Wood Lathe
The JET JWL Variable Speed Wood Lathe is a great choice if you’re looking for a wood lathe with excellent speed control. You can set speeds between 60 and 3,600 RPM when using this machine. Woodworkers can easily shift between forward and reverse. This is due to the company’s ratchet belt tension system.
The integrated spring-loaded spindle lock is also included. The conveniently located controls make it easy to use for woodworkers. This product is well worth looking at if you are looking for a wood lathe with maximum control.
Things We Like
- Speeds range between 60 and 3,600 RPM
- The belt tension system is ratchet-style and allows for easy switching between forward and reverse motions
- You will be safe while changing speeds with the controls located in a convenient spot.
Things we don’t like
- Heavy is approximately 59 kg
- Some customers complained that the product stopped working after just a few months.
Jet JWL-1015 Wood Working Lathe
Jet also offers the JWL-1015 Wood Working Lathe. This product is not as easy to use for woodworkers. Six speeds are available: 500, 840 and 1240; 1800, 2630 and 3975. This wood lathe has a 39 cm space between the centers and an integrated 24-position indexing.
Jet added broad bedways to this product in an effort to increase rigidity. This wood lathe was very stable, according to our tests. It is also lightweight at around 34 kg. This makes it easy to move around in your woodworking shop.
Things We Like
- You can work with larger pieces of lumber with 39 cm between the centers
- It is lighter than most models
- Warranty of five years
Wood Lathes: Everything You Need To Know
It is important that you fully understand the product before adding it to your woodworking shop. This information will help you find the right product for you.
What Is A Wood Lathe?
Wood lathes are used by woodworkers and carpenters to create specific shapes from wood. A wood lathe is a machine that allows you to make curves and bows in your wood, unlike other devices like saws.
A wood lathe allows you to attach a piece or wood to an arm that turns. The speed at which the wood spins is controlled by you. You can adjust the speed of your best wood lathes. You won’t be able make cuts if the machine is too slow, especially if you are working with a large piece of wood. You won’t be able to control the wood if the machine spins too fast.
You can make impressions in wood by using various tools as the machine spins. Wood lathes can be used to make smaller products like chess pieces. You can also use it to create things like bowls. A lathe is the best tool to create curves in your wood.
The machine saves you time as opposed to carving the wood by hand. You will also find your pieces are more evenly carved when you use a wood lathe than if you were using your hands.
Wood Lathe Terminology
There are many terms to consider when shopping for a wood lathe. Below is a list of terms and their classifications.
Mounting Materials
Mounting your wood to a wood lathe is the first step. A faceplate is a flat disk that attaches to the wooden part by means of screws. You will need to drill the faceplate into a wood sacrificial piece if you decide to use it.
A spur, also known as a drive centre, can be used to mount the piece. You can use this tool to hold and grab the wood. If you use a spur, it will leave a mark on your material.
A four-jaw lathe chuck is the last option for mounting wood. This piece is similar to a drill-chuck in that it compresses directly onto the wood.
You will also come across the terms drive center and live center. These are the points that will hold the wood in its place. These centerpieces will start turning when the machine is turned on. This is known as spindle-turning.
The lathe swing is another term you’ll often see. The maximum size that the equipment can handle is called the lathe swing. The average length of a lathe swing is approximately 25 cm 30 cm. Less portable lathes will have smaller swings. A lathe with a swing of 113cm or more will likely cost you more.
Wood Working Tools
You can use a variety of tools to create different shapes once your wood has spun. Chisels are one of the most popular tools for wood lathes. Wood lathes require chisels different from standard woodworking chisels.
When using a wood lathe, sharpening chisels is a must. Sharper chisels will yield better results. The tools will likely become dull quickly if they are used on a wood lathe. You should sharpen them every time you use them. For sharpening chisels, a bench grinder can be useful.
You will likely receive other products if you buy chisels as part of a kit. These include gouges and scrapers as well as parts tools. Scrapers are useful for finishing products. They can be used to add finer details. To help you remove large pieces of wood and roughen out parts, you will use gouges. Parting tools are used to trim the rough edges.
To help you become a master craftsman, there are some other tools you might want to add to your toolbox. These tools include calipers and center finders, compasses and inside-diameter calibrpers.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Are you deciding whether to invest in the best wood lathes available for your money? You are likely searching for answers to some questions we have listed below.
Why would I need a lathe made of wood?
You don’t. You may be able to do it by hand if you don’t like making curved pieces of wooden. If you work with curved wood pieces, a lathe can make the process much easier.
A lathe produces pieces with a higher quality. They will be smoother. You can save a lot of time by using a lathe.
What kinds of woodwork can you use on a lathe.
Technically, any kind of wood can be turned with a lathe. This is the main benefit of the lathe. You will likely find it easier to use the tool if you have softer wood. You should also be careful when working with pressure-treated lumber. It can be difficult to use a chisel and gouge on wood this tough.
How much does speed matter?
You will find different speeds for woodworkers when shopping for a lathe. A product with variable speeds is a must. You will want to start with the wood at a slower speed when you first begin. You can speed up the carving process by re-centering the lumber.
When turning a lathe, you should not notice wood wobbling. The rule of thumb is to spin the lathe faster if you are further along in your project. Remember that the more you spin the lathe the more sensitive your wood will be to the tools you use. Keep in mind, however, that lumber with defects is more susceptible to cracking.
Is wood turning safe?
Wood lathes can be used in the same way as any other equipment you might have in your woodworking shop. They are safe if you use them properly. You could be in danger if you don’t follow safety guidelines and procedures. When working with a lathe, be extremely cautious.
You should never start your motor at high speeds. Gradually increase the speed. When you turn on the machine, make sure that the motor is not at its highest setting. This could not only damage the motor but also put you in danger.
When working with a lathe, ensure that you always use eye protection. While goggles are adequate, we prefer to use a complete face shield. Wood shavings can fly everywhere when you use a lathe. Wood chips can fly into your face, cutting you.
Have any other tips or tricks for using a lathe.
We recommend that you do everything possible to maintain the sharpness of your wood lathe. This will ensure high-quality work. It will also prevent the chisel’s bounce or skipping. Even if you are using hard lumber, your blade must be sharp enough to cut through the wood.
Use high-quality wood stock. It will be much harder to use wood that is cracked or knotted.
The Features That Matter
Size Of The Lathe
Lathes come in three sizes, though the details will vary. There are three sizes of lathes: mini-lathes; medium-sized and full-size. A mini-lathe can be used for small projects or is more versatile.
This is great for people who don’t do a lot of large or high-powered projects. These lathes are also ideal for those who need something portable. You might consider a larger lathe if you are going to be working on large projects or need it to move around.
Space Available
You need to be aware of how much space you have for your work. It is not a good idea to buy the best lathe only to find that it doesn’t fit in your space. Instead, look at the spacing and eliminate any that doesn’t fit.
It is important to only consider items that you can use. You’ll want to only consider what you can do with.
Price
Although you don’t want to make your final decision solely on the cost of the lathe, it is something to think about. There are many budget options that will allow you to have complete control over the types of projects you want to make.
You will need to spend a lot if you want the best, but if you aren’t as particular about the features and capabilities of the lathe, you might be able to save some money.
Variable Speed Control
You will have greater flexibility if you can control the speed of your lathe at different times. Variable speed control is not available. You will need to change the belts to achieve different speeds. However, this option is cheaper. Variable speed will cost more, but it will work more efficiently and accurately.
Accessory
If the lathe comes with anything, make sure to look at it. You will need several other tools to make the lathe work, so start with this and then move on to more.
Turning tools and a sharpening device are essential. These may be included with your lathe. A dust collector, face shield and dust masks are also necessary. They won’t be included with the lathe, though they might. But they are things you will want to search for.
Last Thoughts
You need a high-quality wood lathe, no matter what you plan to do with it. We’ve looked at many options to ensure you are ready for whatever comes your way and ready to tackle the next project. There are options for everyone, no matter if you’re just starting out in the field or looking to grow your business.
You can take a look at the selections and decide which one is best for you. You can also find a better option if you don’t like any of the above.
Look at the following features and then search for a wood lathe that matches your needs. It doesn’t matter if you are just starting to research or if you feel you have found something that is truly special, it’s a good place to start.
