Wood lathe learning resources...

[venkatbo]

Hi all,

I checked the local area, and the closest I can see is a 2 day wood turning class for $300 . Materials not included. Is that considered a fair cost of the class ?

My lathe with extension cost me ~half that . Does anyone know of any self-teach resources like DVDs, videos etc.

Thanks,
/venkat

[sacherjj]

The two day (3 hour days) class at Woodcraft was $75. I felt it was fair for that. I don't think I would have been happy at $150, and I know I wouldn't at $300. If just depends on the quality of the class. Be very careful at learning from DVDs. Some assume a certain level of skill and knowledge that newbies (that would be me and you ) do not have. Some of those things are dangerous if you don't understand exactly what is going on.

[BobH]

Have you checked out Woodcraft? The one in San Carlos has a few turning classes coming up. Less than a half hour away from you if Mapquest is correct.

Looks like Joe slipped his reply in ahead of me....

[SteveJ]

You might want to try this one at technical video rental. Their service is excellent, as have been all the dvds I've rented.

http://technicalvideorental.com/inde...oducts_id=1147

[DonHo]

You might also check to see if there are any local woodturning goups. They sometimes offer mentor services for beginning turners. I just found out yesterday that the local one here does. I'll be checking them out soon.

DonHo

[Wood_workur]

Hang out with an experienced turner for a day. Easy way to learn.

[gerti]

$300 for 2 days plus materials is steep.

I'd suggest you start by checking at the American Association of Woodturners and see if there is a local chapter:

http://www.woodturner.org/

I can't speak for other chapters, but ours is great. For $25/year I get a bi-monthly news letter, there is a monthly meeting where some technique is demonstrated, there are frequent hands-on sessions, a web site and a chance to meet turners from your neighborhood. On top of that I get a break at several local stores.

It is possible to learn from books and videos, but watching over the shoulders of a more experienced turner (or having him watch over you shoulder) gets you up to speed much faster.

Good luck!

[Tom Hintz]

We have one DVD available at the link below, based on the questions sent in by viewers over the last year. this one is primarily about turning bowls but more DVD's on other turning (and other woodworking) subjects are coming.

http://www.newwoodworker.com/turning/trnbwldvd.html