About a year ago I was going to buy a Tiny Lathe To help with replacing broken tool handles etc. However while looking on FB market place for projects I found a WEN 8x30 varible speed lathe with chuck and spurs for $130. I love it!!! I really enjoy your videos. Thanks for sharing and hello to the whole Magfamily from SE Texas.
@@357magdad keep an eye on craigs list and market place for one, I do love mine. I also bought the Amazon el cheeeeepo brand carbide tools for wood. They are pretty awesome too.
I like the way you took the initiative to make the lathe work for you by the mods you have completed, and all the unique things you have accomplished. Thanks for the update. Looking forward to more lathe projects
If I didn't already have a lathe I probably would get the tiny one. The ability to move it around is key. I purchased a set of gouges on Amazon. there were about 8 total tools. It was about $50, I haven't had much time using them but it might be something you could use. Great video and beautiful projects.
You've gotten some great use and cool projects out of the tiny lathe, and its apparent to me that you've had alot of fun in the process. I bet there is a larger, more capable lathe in your future. It will be interesting to see what you find in your tool search adventures.
We have enjoyed your progression with your tiny lathe and have been amazed at what you have accomplished. Hope that you are able to get a full size lathe sometime.
You’ve been restricted by the size of the lathe and you’ve made sone really nice projects. You did a great job on modifying the lathe and improving on the tools used for it! Great job! 👍
I bought one of these as an experiment to keep at work. I repair stringed instruments. So far, I've successfully used it to pare down a cello end pin, and turn a trombone trigger lever cover for the brass guy. As an experiment, I tried duplicating a cello end pin. It worked, but a catch in the wood at the very end ruined it. I need to replace the tool rest like you have shown in this video. My live center mysteriously disappeared a few months ago, so I upgraded by buying an adjustable live center. I think that as long as I don't overtax the motor, this lathe should serve me for quite a while.
I picked one up a few weeks ago after your video. Looking forward to making those mods. I just picked up some awesome turning tools at a swap meet. Great video!
Thats some great improvising to work around the shortcomings. Id like something to help turn basswood eggs for carving. Its a lot to carve square to an egg, lol.
What a cool little piece of gear MagDad. It's amazing what you have accomplished with it. I have a WEN benchtop lathe as I don't have much space and I am very happy with it. If you are considering a larger lathe and don't have room for a full sized one you might consider a benchtop unit. Regards, Bill.
I enjoy my tiny lathe. I have used some of your upgrades with mine and will be doing a few more that you just showed. I have mainly used mine for making wheels and propane tanks for camper bird houses. I also make a lot of bobbers for fishing. Thanks for sharing your upgrades and experience with us.
Great review ! You inspired me right after you received it for Christmas. I purchased one and like you have done some modifications and replaced their flimsy tools. I’m not sorry I have it. I don’t have room for a larger one and this one works great. Thank you for suggesting it and all the tips you have provided. You are doing an awesome job on your lathe projects.
I've played around with the mini lathe but haven't made anything yet. I like it. I have a folder on my HD with many of your videos I downloaded and I also have a 357magdad wishlist on Amazon. Same with ScoutCrafter stuff. I had a number of larger tools but when my son got his own house I gave a lot of it to him including my wood lathe. I'm happy with this smaller lathe for now. I got away from a lot of this stuff until I started discovering channels like yours and ScoutCrafter and many other channels. I also saved your playlist. Enjoyed the video but that goes without saying. Thanks!
You have been able to make a lot of useful projects in the year of having this lathe. Well done. You can increase swing by adding spacers under the headstock and tailstock. This would mean a new tool rest, but this may allow for bigger projects. Dave.
You have turned out some incredible handles. Matching two handles would really be difficult but yours look fantastic. Amazing work Magdad thanks for sharing your expertise
That is definitely a mini lathe! You've turned out some good handles given the size. I'm in the process of using a slightly bigger one, it's great fun.
You've turned out some great projects with that small lathe! The mods you have made to make it work better are great, and give some great ideas for fellow owners!
Thanks Magdad, that's a very fair review of your expeience with this lathe. I was fortunate enough to already own a budget lathe before purchasing one of these mini lathes, but have still found it to be useful, particularly in the restoration sphere ! They certainly have their limitations but if you simply need to turn a tool handle they are great inexpensive option, and great fun to boot !
Love those handles that you made on the lathe.. your lathe might be small, but you did the best with what you have.. I see a much better lathe for you in the future... M.D. you take care my friend and thx for bringing us along...
Good review. The mods you made were smart and the work you've produced on this has been outstanding. Been fun to follow along, keep sending us the good stuff.
Wow, that is a tiny lathe for sure. I love turning wood but haven't pulled my lathe out for over 3 years now. Unfortunately trying to scratch out a business in leathercraft while building and living offgrid takes up more time than I have. Eventually I'll get back to it. Especially because I have some ideas that will incorporate leathercraft and wood turning together.
Might be a good starter for a younger child, definitely won't twist their arm off..........Or anyone that just wants to do exclusively smaller projects but it seems that it really needs modifications like you did to be useful.
I have one that I've modded a bit, removed the b10 chuck, and replaced it with a self centering 3 jaw chuck, but also have a 4. I'm going to be adding a spacer to the motor mount side, as I got a different live center and its about 4 mm short but I wanted to try to get at least able to do a 2x2. Pretty nifty little machine especially if you give it a lil tlc.
Looks like a fun little wood lathe to have. I just ordered it for $29 on Amazon. Thanks for showing us all the little things you did to improve it. I'm going to do the same. 😀
I did enjoy the video, thanks. I have the Rikon 70-105 and can highly recommend it. Very smooth and small enough for a small shop. I need to get a few accessories to make it more versatile but it does what I bought it for which is to make tool handles. It will handle small bowl turning though. Just a thought.
I was going to ask if the love center could be reversed, but I see you thought of that as well. It looks like a nice starter lathe to get your feet wet. I can only imagine how much you could make with a larger one.
I am thinking of buying one of the tiny lathe for just little projects small handles for replacing old screw driver handles. For a beginner is this a good one to get to start then get a different one when get more skilled at the lathe and can go to a bigger one.
It's a tough call if the Mini Lathe is worth the money or should you just buy a full size lathe ??? For me i would go for the full size lathe over the mini lathe you can do much bigger and better projects with a full size lathe over a mini lathe .. You did some really nice projects using the mini but you had to do a lot of modifications to make it work better .. Does the mini Lathe have its place in the workshop the answer is yes if you were doing small wood modeling projects all the time ... Great Review on the mini lathe 1 year later .. So next Sunday's video show us YT fans the unboxing of a Brand new Wood Lathe LOL hey take care enjoy your Sunday
If you want to turn larger diameters then you definitely need a larger lathe. Not everyone wants to turn bowls though. For handles that tiny lathe does the trick.
You're getting maximum use out of that mini lathe. I have a lathe I made myself and for the most part all I ever do with it is turn handles. Lathes are some pretty simple machines as long as you're not looking to cut threads on them or something.
@@357magdad I've found that making tool handles in general is very satisfying. I always enjoy using any tools I've made the handle for. I feel a personal connection with the tool then.
Do you ever grease/lubricate your lathe? I have just received a similar mini lathe, the instructions tell me to lubricate it often, but not where (I imagine all turning parts). I am very happy with your review and projects, they give a good idea on the kind of projects that suit a mini lathe! I intend to make a bentwood ring and polish/inlay it using the lathe. Perhaps an idea for your next mini lathe project!
Great review I’m handy but I do not know how to make the tool rest si instead I emailed you to see if I can purchase one from you. lol I love my mini lathe too. I’ve had it for over a year also.
I think I bought an old Craftsman once for $10. Just the lathe though. No motor or anything. I have another one that's art deco styled. I can't even remember where it came from.
@@357magdad I hear that. I'm still kicking myself for passing on a bandsaw because I just couldn't think of where I'd put it. I could have gotten it for $50. It was a Jet 14" in mint condition.
Man i just make a starter hole and put a drill bit on a dremel. Hold the dremel in one hand pushing the wood up against a wall so it doesn't fly off and a small wood chisel. Iv made a top to my tobacco pipe, some tool handles, and straight tobacco pipes like this.
It is time young grasshopper. You have certainly made due with this small lathe, but I bet you can find a decent wood lathe at one of the sales you go to. When the time is right, it will find you. Thanks.
This tiny lathe is perfect for fishing float making M D, as I only use it with sandpaper for soft materials like cork, balsa, and styrofoam. I do however intend using it in the future, for tool handles to aid my float making processes. In my view, it is perfect for my needs. ✌❤ Bob.
About a year ago I was going to buy a Tiny Lathe To help with replacing broken tool handles etc. However while looking on FB market place for projects I found a WEN 8x30 varible speed lathe with chuck and spurs for $130. I love it!!! I really enjoy your videos. Thanks for sharing and hello to the whole Magfamily from SE Texas.
Thanks Patrick! Making stuff on the lathe is fun!
@@357magdad keep an eye on craigs list and market place for one, I do love mine. I also bought the Amazon el cheeeeepo brand carbide tools for wood. They are pretty awesome too.
Regardless of the restrictions of the lathe, your work has been outstanding and an inspiration to all.
Thanks Shedman! I'm looking forward to more tiny lathe projects!
I like the way you took the initiative to make the lathe work for you by the mods you have completed, and all the unique things you have accomplished. Thanks for the update. Looking forward to more lathe projects
Thanks Terry! I'm looking forward to more projects on the tiny lathe!
Thanks for sharing the modifications you made to make the lathe more versatile. Your work on the lathe is great!
Thanks John!
Thanks for reviewing the lathe. This will definitely help people make a decision. Great video!
Thanks Mike! I've had a lot of viewers ask me about it.
If I didn't already have a lathe I probably would get the tiny one. The ability to move it around is key. I purchased a set of gouges on Amazon. there were about 8 total tools. It was about $50, I haven't had much time using them but it might be something you could use. Great video and beautiful projects.
I got a great deal on a set of tools from Harbor Freight. They were on clearance and they let me use a coupon!
You've gotten some great use and cool projects out of the tiny lathe, and its apparent to me that you've had alot of fun in the process. I bet there is a larger, more capable lathe in your future. It will be interesting to see what you find in your tool search adventures.
Thanks Pat!
Wow Magdad, seems like just yesterday! You have made the best out of that little lathe.. great improvements and just absolutely fantastic projects!!
Thanks Vic! Someday I'll have room for a "real" lathe!
We have enjoyed your progression with your tiny lathe and have been amazed at what you have accomplished. Hope that you are able to get a full size lathe sometime.
Thanks Larry! I hope I have room for a "real" lathe someday!
You’ve been restricted by the size of the lathe and you’ve made sone really nice projects. You did a great job on modifying the lathe and improving on the tools used for it! Great job! 👍
Thanks Frank! I'm looking forward to more tiny lathe projects!
Took that little lathe to next level with the improvement you made
It's a shame it doesn't come with a better tool rest and tools.
You probably learned more from starting with this one than a larger, more advanced one
Thanks for keeping us updated on your projects
I've had a lot of fun with my tiny lathe!
I bought one of these as an experiment to keep at work. I repair stringed instruments. So far, I've successfully used it to pare down a cello end pin, and turn a trombone trigger lever cover for the brass guy. As an experiment, I tried duplicating a cello end pin. It worked, but a catch in the wood at the very end ruined it. I need to replace the tool rest like you have shown in this video. My live center mysteriously disappeared a few months ago, so I upgraded by buying an adjustable live center. I think that as long as I don't overtax the motor, this lathe should serve me for quite a while.
I'm glad you had success with the tiny lathe! I've got a new project coming up soon - stay tuned!
I picked one up a few weeks ago after your video. Looking forward to making those mods. I just picked up some awesome turning tools at a swap meet. Great video!
I hope you have fun with it Tom! "Real" tools make a big difference!
Thats some great improvising to work around the shortcomings. Id like something to help turn basswood eggs for carving. Its a lot to carve square to an egg, lol.
There's a bunch of TH-cam videos about turning eggs on the lathe.
@@357magdad I'll look into it. I honestly never thought about youtube lol.
What a cool little piece of gear MagDad. It's amazing what you have accomplished with it. I have a WEN benchtop lathe as I don't have much space and I am very happy with it. If you are considering a larger lathe and don't have room for a full sized one you might consider a benchtop unit. Regards, Bill.
Thanks Bill! Right now I don't have the room on the bench for one - maybe someday...
I built a rolling stand for mine so I do not have to put it on my small workbench. I just roll it out of the way when it's not in use.
I enjoy my tiny lathe. I have used some of your upgrades with mine and will be doing a few more that you just showed.
I have mainly used mine for making wheels and propane tanks for camper bird houses. I also make a lot of bobbers for fishing.
Thanks for sharing your upgrades and experience with us.
I'm glad you're having success with it Barry! I'd love to see some photos of your projects! 357mdad@gmail.com
Great review ! You inspired me right after you received it for Christmas. I purchased one and like you have done some modifications and replaced their flimsy tools. I’m not sorry I have it. I don’t have room for a larger one and this one works great. Thank you for suggesting it and all the tips you have provided. You are doing an awesome job on your lathe projects.
You've made some really nice handles with yours Jack!
@@357magdad Thank You
Adding a new lathe to your shop will be fun to watch…ohh, the things you’ll make!
I hope I can someday John!
I've played around with the mini lathe but haven't made anything yet. I like it. I have a folder on my HD with many of your videos I downloaded and I also have a 357magdad wishlist on Amazon. Same with ScoutCrafter stuff. I had a number of larger tools but when my son got his own house I gave a lot of it to him including my wood lathe. I'm happy with this smaller lathe for now. I got away from a lot of this stuff until I started discovering channels like yours and ScoutCrafter and many other channels. I also saved your playlist. Enjoyed the video but that goes without saying. Thanks!
I hope you have as much fun with the tiny lathe as I'm having!
I can’t believe it’s been a year! Wow! You really did amazing work on that. 😃👍
Thanks ScoutCrafter! Time flies when you're havin' fun!
You have been able to make a lot of useful projects in the year of having this lathe. Well done.
You can increase swing by adding spacers under the headstock and tailstock. This would mean a new tool rest, but this may allow for bigger projects.
Dave.
Thanks Dave! The swing is about right for tool handles. I'm hoping the 7" length will help with a project I got in mind...
You have turned out some incredible handles. Matching two handles would really be difficult but yours look fantastic. Amazing work Magdad thanks for sharing your expertise
Thanks Michael! I'm looking forward to more tiny lathe projects!
That is definitely a mini lathe! You've turned out some good handles given the size. I'm in the process of using a slightly bigger one, it's great fun.
It's the tool I look forward to using the most!
You've turned out some great projects with that small lathe! The mods you have made to make it work better are great, and give some great ideas for fellow owners!
Thanks Jim! I'm looking forward to more projects on my tiny lathe!
I have always loved your little lathe, and have been very impressed by how you have gotten the most out of it.
Thanks Chris! I've got more tiny lathe projects coming up!
You have made some amazing pieces with that tiny lathe and i always enjoy watching you use it.
Thanks Ivan!
Thanks Magdad, that's a very fair review of your expeience with this lathe. I was fortunate enough to already own a budget lathe before purchasing one of these mini lathes, but have still found it to be useful, particularly in the restoration sphere ! They certainly have their limitations but if you simply need to turn a tool handle they are great inexpensive option, and great fun to boot !
Thanks Andy! I hope you're havin' as much fun with your tiny lathe as I'm havin' with mine!
Love those handles that you made on the lathe.. your lathe might be small, but you did the best with what you have.. I see a much better lathe for you in the future... M.D. you take care my friend and thx for bringing us along...
Thanks Gary!
Good review. The mods you made were smart and the work you've produced on this has been outstanding. Been fun to follow along, keep sending us the good stuff.
Thanks David! I'm looking forward to more projects with the tiny lathe!
Really impressed with how you made that lathe work for you. Very nice work.
Thanks Tony!
As usual a good review of this shop tool. Thanks for you contribution to the hobby.
I'm looking forward to more tiny lathe projects!
Wow, that is a tiny lathe for sure. I love turning wood but haven't pulled my lathe out for over 3 years now. Unfortunately trying to scratch out a business in leathercraft while building and living offgrid takes up more time than I have. Eventually I'll get back to it. Especially because I have some ideas that will incorporate leathercraft and wood turning together.
I'm interested in trying some leather projects - maybe when I retire...
Might be a good starter for a younger child, definitely won't twist their arm off..........Or anyone that just wants to do exclusively smaller projects but it seems that it really needs modifications like you did to be useful.
The little motor will stall before it pulls a tool out of your hand.
Although limited by size, you’ve made some great projects! Remember if you want the lathe I’ve got just let me know
Thanks Steve!
I have one that I've modded a bit, removed the b10 chuck, and replaced it with a self centering 3 jaw chuck, but also have a 4. I'm going to be adding a spacer to the motor mount side, as I got a different live center and its about 4 mm short but I wanted to try to get at least able to do a 2x2. Pretty nifty little machine especially if you give it a lil tlc.
I've had a lot of fun with my tiny lathe!
Hey Magdad, I still love my mini lathe. Yes, I have made a few modifications.
I'm glad you're havin' fun with the tiny lathe Robert!
Looks like a fun little wood lathe to have. I just ordered it for $29 on Amazon. Thanks for showing us all the little things you did to improve it. I'm going to do the same. 😀
I hope you have as much fun with it as I'm havin'!
Great review, Magdad. Thanks very much for sharing your experiences, recommendations and modifications. Looking forward to seeing your future work. 👍
Thanks Joseph!
Hey !Bonjour Magdad vous êtes vraiment devenu un spécialiste du tour à bois, vos réalisations sont superbes et d'une finesse inégalée. ❤
Thanks Patrick! I'm looking forward to more lathe projects!
Great video MagDad. I really like the modifications and everything you have turned and shared with us.
Thanks! I'm looking forward to more tiny lathe projects!
@@357magdad so am I
Thanks for the informations. I have sold my lathe because of space in the future and waiting for this nice small machine for small projects.
Check out a couple projects I've used for:
th-cam.com/video/pa1bVVAieVQ/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/BLasAKw3ksE/w-d-xo.html
Very cool, It is amazing what can be done with that little guy, (Chuck size) lathe.
Chuck really likes the little screwdriver I made for him!
For some projects it's small size is a real plus!
I think it's the tool I look most forward to using!
I did enjoy the video, thanks. I have the Rikon 70-105 and can highly recommend it. Very smooth and small enough for a small shop. I need to get a few accessories to make it more versatile but it does what I bought it for which is to make tool handles. It will handle small bowl turning though. Just a thought.
That's the size lathe I'll probably end up getting someday.
I like all the stuff you made with your your mini lathe thank you for the video
Thanks Joe! I'm looking forward to more tiny lathe projects!
I was going to ask if the love center could be reversed, but I see you thought of that as well.
It looks like a nice starter lathe to get your feet wet. I can only imagine how much you could make with a larger one.
Someday I'll get a "real" lathe!
Looks like a wonderful little tool to have 👍 and so much amazing stuff you made with it too nice 😊
It might be my favorite tool!
I have one and love it!
Excellent!
I am thinking of buying one of the tiny lathe for just little projects small handles for replacing old screw driver handles. For a beginner is this a good one to get to start then get a different one when get more skilled at the lathe and can go to a bigger one.
I've had a lot of fun with my tiny lathe! Check out my projects:
th-cam.com/play/PL2LUCgmdqpXO1J5MYEHZJ4rjVGHGIgbad.html
Great results. Thanks for the review. Now you are really tempting me.
If you got the room, check out the "real" lathes WEN sells.
@@357magdad I'm going to have to stick with mini. I have absolutely no spare room.
Great video thanks for sharing your time 🍺🍺👍👍
Thanks Brian!
I wonder if an increase in the height of the motor and spindle by and inch or more would be too much for the chuck and spindle?
The little motor is not very powerful. I've stalled it a few times.
It's a tough call if the Mini Lathe is worth the money or should you just buy a full size lathe ??? For me i would go for the full size lathe over the mini lathe you can do much bigger and better projects with a full size lathe over a mini lathe .. You did some really nice projects using the mini but you had to do a lot of modifications to make it work better .. Does the mini Lathe have its place in the workshop the answer is yes if you were doing small wood modeling projects all the time ... Great Review on the mini lathe 1 year later .. So next Sunday's video show us YT fans the unboxing of a Brand new Wood Lathe LOL hey take care enjoy your Sunday
If you want to turn larger diameters then you definitely need a larger lathe. Not everyone wants to turn bowls though. For handles that tiny lathe does the trick.
Hopefully someday I'll get a "real" lathe Roger!
@@357magdad you already have a real lathe. It's just small. You've certainly done real work on the lathe you have.
Looks like your on the way to Happy Lathe Valley...it's vast...🖖
I'm looking forward to more lathe projects!
You're getting maximum use out of that mini lathe. I have a lathe I made myself and for the most part all I ever do with it is turn handles. Lathes are some pretty simple machines as long as you're not looking to cut threads on them or something.
Making tool handles on the lathe is fun!
@@357magdad I've found that making tool handles in general is very satisfying. I always enjoy using any tools I've made the handle for. I feel a personal connection with the tool then.
Do you ever grease/lubricate your lathe? I have just received a similar mini lathe, the instructions tell me to lubricate it often, but not where (I imagine all turning parts). I am very happy with your review and projects, they give a good idea on the kind of projects that suit a mini lathe! I intend to make a bentwood ring and polish/inlay it using the lathe. Perhaps an idea for your next mini lathe project!
I hope you have as much fun with your tiny lathe as I'm having! My lathe did not come with instructions. I have not lubricated it.
Thanks for the quick answer! The instruction read more like a precaution, to clear the manufacturer from trouble. It will probably be fine :)
Great review I’m handy but I do not know how to make the tool rest si instead I emailed you to see if I can purchase one from you. lol
I love my mini lathe too. I’ve had it for over a year also.
I'm glad you are enjoying your mini lathe. I don't have any more scrap angle iron to make another tool rest.
You are very talented.
I do OK with my meager tools...
Are you able to lathe brass with your setup?
I haven't tried....yet....
You should be able to get a good used lathe for under $200. Especially at estate sales etc. in the North East.
I think I bought an old Craftsman once for $10. Just the lathe though. No motor or anything. I have another one that's art deco styled. I can't even remember where it came from.
I'm keeping my eye out, but I have limited space.
@@357magdad I hear that. I'm still kicking myself for passing on a bandsaw because I just couldn't think of where I'd put it. I could have gotten it for $50. It was a Jet 14" in mint condition.
Man i just make a starter hole and put a drill bit on a dremel. Hold the dremel in one hand pushing the wood up against a wall so it doesn't fly off and a small wood chisel. Iv made a top to my tobacco pipe, some tool handles, and straight tobacco pipes like this.
Before I got my tiny lathe I used my drill press:
th-cam.com/video/Yn_jWF1xgCU/w-d-xo.html
Beautiful
Thanks!
It is time young grasshopper. You have certainly made due with this small lathe, but I bet you can find a decent wood lathe at one of the sales you go to. When the time is right, it will find you. Thanks.
I'm keeping my eye out, but I've got very limited space.
I enjoyed the video a great deal thanks
Thanks Ben!
This tiny lathe is perfect for fishing float making M D, as I only use it with sandpaper for soft materials like cork, balsa, and styrofoam. I do however intend using it in the future, for tool handles to aid my float making processes. In my view, it is perfect for my needs. ✌❤ Bob.
Thanks Bob! I'm glad you're having success with it!