trifern's Workshop

Do you have any pictures or details about your shop?

-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.

Thanks Gary, I will post photos when I get a chance.

-- My favorite piece is my last one, my best piece is my next one.

It looks like you have a nice list of tools although I have yet to see a shop that couldn’t be hurt by adding more tools. I am looking forward to seeing the pictures as well.

-- With God's help all things are possible- even woodworking. Woodworking is not just a hobby, it is an (expletive deleted) expensive hobby.

I saw that you had the Leigh Super 18 listed as one of the tools that you own. I’m looking a buying one of the Super series or th D4R. You can’t bet the price on the Super jigs. Do you like yours?

-- Greg Mitchell--Lowell, AR--gdamitchell@sbcglobal.net

Greg, I have not used it a lot, but I do like it. I like the versatility of variable spacing. I have not accomplished much but turning since I bought a lathe in March. I do intend on using it more soon.

-- My favorite piece is my last one, my best piece is my next one.

Hi Joe, it looks like you’re well on your way. Be sure to post any projects with the Liegh jig, I’d like to see them. Also, what kind of lathe did you purchase to do all those great turnings you’ve done lately?

I’m actually thinking of buying a larger lathe, my mini lathe is very limited.

-- Martin, Kansas

Thanks Martin. I have a Grizzly lathe. It is not my ideal lathe, but it has served me well for the price point.

-- My favorite piece is my last one, my best piece is my next one.

Which Grizzly lathe do you have? Looks like you are using it.

-- Tim from Iowa City, IA

“3rd stall of my garage”, does this mean you have at least two others? Sounds nice and roomy. FYI: If it’s cold in there I saw a segment on HGTV on how to insulate your garage doors. You can use flexible foil lined foam so that it beds if you have an automatic style door. And don’t forget the photos of your workshop!

-- "They who dream by day are cognizant of many things which escape those who dream only by night." ~ Edgar Allan Poe

re G0462 “It is not my ideal lathe, but it has served me well for the price point.”

Just out of curiosity’s sake, what does it lack (other than a low speed) what would be your ideal lathe?? You have inspired me into thinking of getting into turning, and am trying to figure out what to look for.

-- Fred, Springfield, Ma

My Grizzly lathe has turned out some nice projects so far. I have not been overly impressed with it though. I started turning when I purchased it in March of 2008. Since that time I have replaced the belt 6 times, both sets of fly wheels twice, new bearings, new tool rest, and the tool rest quick releases. The machine is noisy, vibrates, and the headstock and footstock rarely line up.

If I were to purchase an economical starter lathe, I would buy the Jet mini with variable speed. My ideal lathe, at this moment, would be a Stubby. My middle of the road, and will probably purchase next, is the Powermatic. Vicmark and Oneway also make great equipment.

-- My favorite piece is my last one, my best piece is my next one.

Hey Joe, about time you posted those pictures of your shop.

-- Grumpy - "Always look on the bright side of life"- Monty Python

You always have projects I like to check out. I went to tech school at Chanute AFB, many moons ago, outside of Rantoul. Keep up the good work!

-- I'm a lumberjock and I'm ok, I sleep all night and I work all day!