Introduction to the Lathe

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.

Date: Tues., March 4, 5-8 PM
Instructors: Allen Brink & Max Smith
Class size (max.): 10
Attendance (min.): 6*
Skill level: basic
Prerequisites: none

Registration
Household Member & Above: $75**
Individual Member: $79**
General Public: $87
Register By: March 2

*Classes that do not meet the minimum attendance number may be cancelled or rescheduled. If so, you will receive a full refund, or class credit, regardless of the cancellation date.

**You must be a current member on the date of the event to receive your discount. Please login to activate your member discount.

Instructor: Allen Brink is a professional furniture and cabinet maker who, until retiring, spent 35 years working for the architectural millwork company PGS Millwork in Hudson, NY. In addition to being an experienced craftsman, he has also been a shop supervisor, engineer and project manager monitoring all aspects of material purchase, and has a broad knowledge of the engineering, fabrication and installation of wood products. Max Smith is a multidisciplinary craftsman with ten years of experience in woodworking in various forms, stringed instrument repair and making, piano tuning and repair, boatbuilding, cabinetmaking, and as Maintenance Coordinator for the Beacon Sloop Club. He is a full time instructor at HRMM and has participated as a skills demonstrator at the Eric Sloane Museum in Kent, CT. Max frequently sails his 15' Goat Island Skiff, inviting friends and teaching them the basics of sailing.