LumberJocks
DAILY DEALS Precision Taper Jig  |  Makita Makita Recon LCT203W 10.8 Volt Lithium Ion Impact Driver 2 Pc Kit

Ideal height for lathe

« back to Woodworking Tools, Hardware and Accessories forum

Forum topic by PCorl posted 151 days ago 268 views 0 times favorited 5 replies Add to Favorites Watch
View PCorl's profile

PCorl

37 posts in 276 days


151 days ago

Topic tags/keywords: lathe turning question

I recently got a lathe that was mounted on a homemade stand. It seems awful high to me and I was wondering what the ideal height for a lathe should be. The height of my lathe is such that the arbor height is about at my elbow height, that seems high. Would the arbor at waist level be too low? I understand that a measurement off the floor doesn’t work because not everyone is the same height. Does anyone have a rule of thumb for this? Thanks for your input.

View skeezics's profile

skeezics

199 posts in 616 days


151 days ago

spindle height should be about at your elbow. start from there and see whats comfortable for you. then build the bench. I have mine about a 1/2” below my elbow and thats where I seem to like it. [this week] :-]>

-- hey honey! watch this!

View jockmike2's profile

jockmike2

7328 posts in 1143 days


151 days ago

I agree with Skeezics. Spindle at elbow height, but whatever feels comfortable is what counts.

-- Mike. mwurm13@yahoo.com

View jeffthewoodwacker's profile

jeffthewoodwacker

487 posts in 701 days


151 days ago

Spindle height at your elbow and buckle height at the top of the bed ways. I have my lathe just a little high because that is the way that works best for me.

-- Those that say it can't be done should not interrupt those who are doing it.

View cabinetmaster's profile

cabinetmaster

8637 posts in 455 days


151 days ago

Spindle height at the elbow works great for me too.

-- Jerry--A man can never have enough tools or clamps

View teenagewoodworker's profile

teenagewoodworker

2482 posts in 665 days


151 days ago

there really isnt one. spindle height at the elbow works really well but i would just do what i do for pretty much anything’ hold the lathe tool to where youre comfortable and have someone measure the height. then work it out to see how high your stand should be.

You must be signed in to reply.

  • View all advertisers
  • Advertise with us

DISCLAIMER: Any posts on LJ are posted by individuals acting in their own right and do not necessarily reflect the views of LJ. LJ will not be held liable for the actions of any user.

Latest Projects | Latest Blog Entries | Latest Forum Topics

HomeRefurbers.com

Latest Projects | Latest Blog Entries | Latest Forum Topics

GardenTenders.com :: gardening showcase