y Dad was an expert lathe worker (real size lathe) and I watched him create many bed posts, spindles, table legs, newel posts, candle holders and lamp bases. These are the ones I remember. He would make hundreds of pieces all the same without an automatic lathe but instead he would use calipers to take the measurements and duplicate design to machine proficiency.
Having gained an insight into the world of the lathe I felt confident I could work with the wood and a tiny lathe. I purchased the typical lathe sold for miniaturist which was the Dremel set on its side and off I went. Almost addictive, I start with a piece of wood and each time I set it on the lathe, a few minutes later there is a vase or a bowl…I never know just exactly what I will make until the lathe starts going and I see the wood patterns develop. Since than my husband gave me a jeweler’s lathe as awesome Christmas gift one year. What can I say? Some women like jewelry, but I asked for tools and hubby was happy to give me some really nice lathe chisels as well….