Best Wood For Turning On Lathe (2024 Updated)

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If you're new to woodturning, you might be wondering what the best wood for turning on a lathe is. The answer to that question is not straightforward, as there are many factors to consider when choosing wood for your lathe projects.

Firstly, you need to determine what kind of project you're working on. Some woods are better suited for small projects, while others are ideal for larger ones. Secondly, the wood you choose should be dense and hard enough to withstand the rigors of turning. Soft woods tend to break and splinter easily, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.

Another important factor to consider is the grain pattern of the wood. Straight-grained woods are easier to work with and are less likely to split or crack during the turning process. However, some projects benefit from a more figured grain pattern, which can add visual interest to your finished piece.

Finally, you should consider the availability and cost of the wood you're interested in using. Some woods are rare or expensive, while others are readily available and affordable.

In summary, when looking for the best wood for turning on a lathe, you should consider the size and complexity of your project, the hardness and density of the wood, the grain pattern, and the availability and cost of the wood. With these factors in mind, you can choose the perfect wood for your next woodturning project.

10 Best Wood For Turning On Lathe

1. Woodcut Tools Bowlsaver System For Coring Bowl Blanks On Lathe, With Two Blades For 3" To 12" Bowls.

The Woodcut Tools Bowlsaver Complete System is a safe and easy-to-use coring device for turners of all levels. It is the only coring device that is integrated with both the tool rest and tail stock, making it the safest option on the market. With the Bowlsaver, you can create multiple bowl blanks and save both money and time as no additional blade purchases are required.

The Bowlsaver includes two high-strength blades with Stellite Cutters, which can remove bowls from 3" to 12" up to 5" deep from the inside of the mother bowl. This means that different shaped vessels can also be achieved. The Bowlsaver is compatible with almost all Woodturning Lathes, from 12" to 16" swing with 1HP and up. A 1" tool post is included, but you may need to order a tool post to suit the lathe you are using if not 1".

The Woodcut Tools Bowlsaver ensures predictable results every time, thanks to its long-lasting Stellite cutters that can cut green or seasoned wood. The Bowlsaver also comes with a template pattern to determine bowl depth, or you can purchase a Light Guide to make this even easier.

An extensive user guide booklet is included in the box with your Bowlsaver, and user guide, set up, and demonstration videos are available on the Woodcut Tools You Tube channel. This means that turners of all levels can quickly and easily set up and use the Bowlsaver to achieve perfect bowls every time.

In summary, the Woodcut Tools Bowlsaver Complete System is a must-have for any woodturner looking to create multiple bowl blanks quickly, easily, and safely. With the Bowlsaver, you can save both time and money, and achieve predictable results every time. The Bowlsaver is compatible with almost all Woodturning Lathes, and an extensive user guide and videos are available to help you get started.

2. Wood Turner Sawdust Turning On Lathe

The Wood Turner Sawdust Turning on Lathe is an excellent gift for hobbyists and professional wood turners alike. This device enables them to turn wood into various shapes and forms using a lathe, chisels, scrapers, and other tools.

One of the standout features of this product is its variable speed control, which allows the user to adjust the rotation speed of the lathe to their preferred level. This feature is essential for achieving the desired outcome and preventing accidents while turning.

The Wood Turner Sawdust Turning on Lathe comes with a chuck and clamp to secure the piece of wood being turned in place. This ensures that the wood does not move while being turned, resulting in a smooth and consistent finish.

The lathe is versatile and can be used for turning both bowls and spindles. Additionally, the product comes with a stand, making it easy to set up and use in any workspace. The stand is also adjustable, allowing the user to customize the height and angle of the lathe to their liking.

The Wood Turner Sawdust Turning on Lathe is lightweight, making it easy to transport and store. Its classic fit and double-needle sleeve and bottom hem ensure that it is durable and long-lasting.

In conclusion, the Wood Turner Sawdust Turning on Lathe is a must-have for anyone interested in woodworking, whether they are a hobbyist or a professional. Its variable speed control, chuck and clamp, and versatility make it an excellent investment for any wood turner.

3. Carter Products Multirest, Compatible On Mini To Full Size Lathes

The Carter Products MultiRest is a versatile tool that can be used on mini- to full-size lathes. This product is ideal for woodworkers who need a reliable and sturdy rest for their turning projects. The MultiRest can be used as a bowl rest or a steady rest, making it a versatile tool for a variety of turning applications.

One of the key features of the MultiRest is its high strength and low weight. This makes it easy to maneuver and adjust, while still providing reliable support for your turning projects. The MultiRest is made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of woodworking, ensuring that it will last for years to come.

Another benefit of the MultiRest is its compatibility with a wide range of lathes. Whether you have a mini-lathe or a full-size lathe, the MultiRest can be easily attached and used to support your turning projects. This makes it a great investment for woodworkers who have multiple lathes or who want to upgrade their equipment in the future.

The MultiRest is also designed to be easy to use. It can be quickly and easily adjusted to accommodate different sizes and shapes of turning projects, making it a great tool for beginners and experienced woodworkers alike. The MultiRest is also easy to install and remove, so you can switch between different types of rests as needed.

Overall, the Carter Products MultiRest is a high-quality and versatile tool that is ideal for woodworkers who need a reliable and sturdy rest for their turning projects. With its compatibility with mini- to full-size lathes, its high strength and low weight, and its ease of use, the MultiRest is a must-have tool for any serious woodworker. Whether you are turning bowls, spindles, or other projects, the MultiRest will provide the support and stability you need to achieve professional-level results.

4. Xtremepowerus 1/2hp 4-Speed 40" Wood Lathe With Adjustable Benchtop.

The XtremepowerUS 1/2HP 4 Speed 40" inch Power Wood Turning Lathe (14" x 40") Benchtop Wood Lathe Adjustable Speed is a perfect tool for home use. It comes with complete accessories and is compact in size, allowing it to fit in tight spaces. This lathe is ideal for a variety of wood pattern projects and handwork, such as straight fluting, grooving, drilling, layout, and more.

The lathe features adjustable 4 speeds: 1100/1600/2300/3400-RPM, allowing users to tackle various projects with different needs. The 1/2HP setting is powerful and contributes to power saving and better accomplishment. With 40" inches distance between the centers, the lathe provides ample space for woodwork while maintaining a low profile on the workbench. This allows users to work with larger pieces for great handiwork.

The frame of the lathe is made of solid steel, making it steady and strong enough to hold wood projects. The stable frame also helps to reduce vibrations when operating the machine, resulting in better accuracy and precision. Moreover, the lathe comes with several accessory options that can be customized to fit different needs, further enhancing its versatility.

Overall, the XtremepowerUS 1/2HP 4 Speed 40" inch Power Wood Turning Lathe (14" x 40") Benchtop Wood Lathe Adjustable Speed is a reliable and efficient tool that can help users achieve great results in their woodworking projects. With its adjustable speeds, ample working space, solid and steady frame, and accessory options for versatility, this lathe is a must-have for any woodworking enthusiast.

5. Ball And Radius Turning Tool For Bench Top Metal Lathe To Cut Round Shapes In Various Materials.

The LittleMachineShop.com Large Ball and Radius Turning Tool is a versatile cutting tool designed to create round shapes or curves in brass, aluminum, steel, wood, or plastic on a bench top metal lathe. This tool is compatible with a wide range of metalworking machines, including most top brand names. However, it is important to review the list of compatible machines before purchasing, as this product is not suitable for all machines.

The large Ball and Radius Turning Tool is designed with a center height of 3/8" from the bottom of the shank, making it easy to create balls in the ends of rods, shafts, or handles, as well as ball joints, governor weights, railing knobs, and other decorative objects. The lathe radius turning tool is sized for lathes of 5" or greater swing, and the 1/2" shank size fits most standard tool holders. The tool will cut convex curves up to 1 3/4" in diameter.

This tool is durable and made to last with machined high-strength aluminum alloy frames and handles, hardened and ground pivot pins, and custom bronze bearings. The tool is completely machined from solid metal stock, with no stamped, cast, or pressed parts. A pre-ground High Speed steel tool bit is included with each lathe radius turning tool. Each tool is carefully inspected and checked before shipment to ensure quality.

LittleMachineShop.com is a small business based in the United States that specializes in sourcing and selling quality machines, tooling, spare parts, and accessories for home shop machinists and small machine shops. They also sell upgrades and accessories for many leading brands and work with other small US machinists and machine shops who sell innovative products. The company prides itself on providing direct US-based customer support from their knowledgeable team.

If you have any questions about the product's compatibility or features, LittleMachineShop.com encourages customers to reach out to their team for assistance before making a purchase. The company also requests the courtesy of contact if a customer needs to return a product to see if any issues can be resolved. With their commitment to quality and customer service, LittleMachineShop.com stands behind all their products.

6. Small Ball And Radius Turning Tool For Bench Top Metal Lathes – Ideal For Cutting Curves In Various Materials (2569)

The LittleMachineShop.com Small Ball and Radius Turning Tool is a versatile tool designed to cut round shapes or curves in brass, aluminum, steel, wood, or plastic on your bench top metal lathe. This tool is compatible with a broad range of metalworking machines, including most top brand names. However, it is important to check the list of compatible machines before purchasing, as this tool may not work on all machines.

This small Ball and Radius Turning Tool is designed to fit in standard tool holders on most lathes. The center height is 1/4" from the bottom of the shank, which means little or no shimming is needed on lathes like Sherline or Taig, which use a standard 1/4" tool bit. On other lathes, the tool can be easily shimmed to center height. The tool is machined from high strength aluminum alloy and features custom bronze bearings and hardened and ground pivot pins. It comes with a pre-ground High Speed steel tool bit.

This lathe radius turning tool is sized for lathes of 5" or greater swing, and the 3/8" shank size will fit most standard tool holders. The tool can cut convex curves up to 3/4" in diameter, making it ideal for creating balls in the ends of rods, shafts, or handles, as well as ball joints, governor weights, railing knobs, round contact points for tools, nose cones, and many other useful and decorative objects.

LittleMachineShop.com is a small US business specializing in sourcing and selling quality machines, tooling, spare parts, and accessories for home shop machinists and small machine shops. They also sell upgrades and accessories for many of the leading brands. Whenever possible, they work with and promote other small US machinists and machine shops who sell innovative products. With direct US-based customer support from their knowledgeable team, they stand behind all their products.

If you have any questions about the LittleMachineShop.com Small Ball and Radius Turning Tool, the company encourages you to reach out to them. They understand how information helps in making buying decisions and are happy to discuss compatibility or features before you purchase. Additionally, if you need to return something, they ask for the courtesy of a contact to see if they can eliminate any possible issues.

7. Usa Made Acrylic/resin Carbide Woodturning Tool Set – 2 Tools, 9" Length, 12" Colored Handles

The Simple Woodturning Tools Acrylic/Resin Set of 2 Carbide Tools for Turning Acrylic/Resin/Hybrid on a Wood Lathe is an exceptional product that has been designed to cater to the needs of individuals who are interested in turning acrylic, resin, or wood/resin hybrid pieces on a wood lathe. The set comprises two mid-size, carbide-tipped tools that have been designed to provide turners with maximum artistic ability while working with man-made materials.

The idea behind the development of this product was to create a set of tools that could be used to turn any of the man-made materials that are available in the market. The developers recognized that a one-size-fits-all approach would not work well across all the different materials available, including hybrid pieces. Therefore, they set out to create a set of tools that would cater to the unique needs of each material.

The first tool in the set is the AR MSTH, which features a 1/2" round solid stainless steel tool shaft with a 12mm round flat top carbide cutter. This tool is ideal for beginners who are just starting to turn resins/acrylic pieces. The tool length is 7" with a 12" handle, making it easy to handle and control while turning.

The second tool in the set is the AR MSR, which features a 3/8" square stainless steel tool shaft with an 11mm square carbide cutter with a negative rake angle. This tool is ideal for roughing and making straight lines and flat surfaces. The tool length is 7", with a 12" handle, providing users with maximum control and precision while working.

Both tools in the set are American-made by Harrison Specialties in Ramsey, Minnesota. The tools and handles have been CNC precision machined, ensuring that users get professional-grade tools that will last a lifetime. Additionally, users can rotate the cutter heads as needed, allowing them to keep using the tools for a long time.

In conclusion, the Simple Woodturning Tools Acrylic/Resin Set of 2 Carbide Tools for Turning Acrylic/Resin/Hybrid on a Wood Lathe is a top-quality product that has been designed to cater to the unique needs of turners who work with man-made materials. The set comprises two carbide-tipped tools that are easy to handle, control, and provide maximum artistic ability while working. The tools are American-made and have been CNC precision machined, ensuring that they are of the highest quality and will last a lifetime.

8. Mophorn 14" X 40" Wood Lathe With 4-Speed And 1/2hp Motor, Includes 3 Chisels For High-Speed Sanding And Polishing Of Finished Work, Ideal For Benchtop Use.

The Mophorn Wood Lathe 14" x 40" is a powerful and versatile tool designed for high-speed sanding and polishing of finished work. Equipped with a 1/2 horse power motor, this lathe delivers a smooth and safe start-up, while its solid steel construction ensures durability and stability for consistent operation.

The adjustable belts on this wood lathe enable easy and accurate speed adjustments within four speed ranges, ranging from 1100 to 3400 RPM. This feature allows users to customize their work to their needs, making it suitable for a range of applications.

The Mophorn Wood Lathe 14" x 40" provides a generous work capacity with a distance of 40" (1000mm) between centers and a cutting diameter of 14" (350mm). The high concentricity of this lathe ensures precision workmanship and accuracy, while its moving tailstock allows for easy adjustment of proper distances for workpieces.

In addition to its impressive features, the Mophorn Wood Lathe 14" x 40" comes with three chisels and three wrenches, making it an all-in-one solution for woodwork enthusiasts. The chisels included are a Skew Chisel, Shear Scraper, and Spindle Gouge, which are essential tools to achieve smooth and precise cutting.

Overall, the Mophorn Wood Lathe 14" x 40" is a reliable and versatile tool that can handle a range of woodworking tasks with ease. Its solid construction, adjustable speed, and generous work capacity make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced woodworkers. With its included chisels and wrenches, it is a complete solution for those seeking to enhance their woodworking skills.

9. 6" Steel Wood Lathe Face Plate With 1-1/4"x8tpi Thread And Locking Set Screw For Turning And Reversing Lathes.

The Findmall 6 Inch Steel Wood Lathe Face Plate is a high-quality product that is designed to fit any lathe with a 1-Inch by 8TPI spindle thread. This faceplate is made of 45steel, which is known for its durability and strength. With a diameter of 6 inches and a thickness of 7/16 inches, this faceplate is perfect for any wood lathe turning project.

One of the key features of this product is the 8 screwholes that are located on 2 guide rings. This design allows for easy centering of the faceplate, making it easier to get precise and accurate results. Additionally, the flat spots that are cut on the back spigot make it easy to remove the faceplate from the lathe when needed.

The locking set screw on this faceplate is another great feature that makes it easy to lock the faceplate onto the spindle. This ensures that the faceplate stays securely in place during use, which is important for safety and accuracy.

This faceplate is also versatile and can be used for a variety of different projects. Whether you are working on a small or large project, the Findmall 6 Inch Steel Wood Lathe Face Plate is a great choice. It is perfect for both beginners and experienced woodturners, and it is ideal for use with reversing lathes.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a high-quality and durable wood lathe faceplate, the Findmall 6 Inch Steel Wood Lathe Face Plate is an excellent choice. Its sturdy construction, locking set screw, and easy centering design make it a versatile and reliable option for any woodworking project.

10. 2-Piece Usa Made Acrylic/resin Carbide Woodturning Tool Set With 12" Blades And 17" Handles.

The Simple Woodturning Tools Acrylic/Resin Set is a top-of-the-line offering for those who are interested in turning acrylic, resin, or wood/resin hybrid pieces on a wood lathe. This set includes two full-size tools that are carbide-tipped and are designed to offer maximum creative flexibility to the turner. These tools are made in the USA by Harrison Specialties in Ramsey, Minnesota, and are CNC precision machined to ensure professional-grade quality and durability.

The AR STH tool features a 5/8" round solid stainless steel tool shaft with a 12mm round flat top carbide cutter. This tool is ideal for beginners who are just getting into turning resins or acrylic pieces. The tool length is 9.5" with a 17" handle, providing ample length to work with larger pieces.

The AR SR tool is designed for roughing and making straight lines and flat surfaces. It features a ½" square stainless steel tool shaft with a 15mm square carbide cutter with a negative rake angle. The tool length is also 9.5" with a 17" handle, providing balance and control for the turner.

Both tools in this set are designed to be used with man-made materials, and the carbide tips provide long-lasting cutting edges. The cutter heads can be rotated as needed, ensuring that these tools will last a lifetime. The handles of these tools are ergonomically designed to provide comfort and control while turning.

The set is perfect for those who are interested in turning acrylic, resin, or hybrid pieces on a wood lathe. The tools are designed to work with a variety of man-made materials, giving the turner maximum flexibility and creative control. The American-made quality of these tools ensures that they will last a lifetime and provide professional-grade results.

Best Wood For Turning On Lathe FAQs

Can I use any type of wood for turning on a lathe, or are there specific types that work best?

While it is possible to use any type of wood for turning on a lathe, there are specific types that work better than others. Some woods are easier to work with and yield better results than others. Hardwoods such as maple, cherry, and walnut are popular choices for their durability and attractive grain patterns. Softwoods like pine and cedar are also used but may require more skill to work with due to their tendency to splinter and chip. It's important to consider the moisture content of the wood as well. Green or wet wood can be turned, but it may warp or crack as it dries. Dry wood is more stable and easier to work with. Ultimately, the type of wood chosen will depend on the desired outcome and the lathe operator's skill level.

How do I choose the best wood for my lathe turning project?

When choosing the best wood for a lathe turning project, there are several factors to consider. First, consider the density and durability of the wood. Hardwoods such as maple, oak, and cherry are great choices for turning as they are strong and resist wear and tear. Softwoods like pine and cedar are less durable, but can still be used for certain projects.

The grain pattern and appearance of the wood should also be taken into account. Look for interesting patterns and colors that will enhance the final product. Some woods, such as ebony and rosewood, are prized for their beauty and are often used for high-end projects.

Finally, consider the availability and cost of the wood. Some exotic woods can be expensive and difficult to find, while others may be more readily available and affordable. Overall, choose a wood that is appropriate for your project, looks good, and fits your budget.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of different types of wood for lathe turning?

Different types of wood have their own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to lathe turning. For instance, hardwoods such as maple, oak, and cherry are known for their durability and ability to hold detail, making them ideal for intricate workpieces. However, they can be harder to turn and may require more time and effort to finish.

Softwoods such as pine and cedar are often easier to turn and can be more forgiving for beginners. However, they may not hold detail as well as hardwoods and can be prone to tear-out.

Exotic woods like ebony and cocobolo can add unique aesthetics to a project, but they can be expensive and may require specialized tools and techniques to work with.

Ultimately, the choice of wood should depend on the desired outcome of the project, as well as the skill level of the turner. It is always best to experiment with different types of wood to find what works best for the specific project.

What are the properties of the best wood for turning on a lathe?

The best wood for turning on a lathe should have a consistent grain pattern, be straight-grained, and have minimal knots or defects. It should also be dense and have a fine texture to allow for a smooth finish. Some of the best woods for turning include maple, cherry, oak, and walnut. These woods are strong, stable, and easy to work with. Additionally, they offer a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing for a variety of creative possibilities. It is also important to note that the wood should be properly dried and cured to prevent warping or cracking during the turning process. Overall, the best wood for turning on a lathe is one that is strong, consistent, and easy to work with, allowing for a high-quality finished product.

Which types of wood are recommended for turning on a lathe?

The types of wood recommended for turning on a lathe depend on the desired outcome and the experience level of the turner. However, in general, hardwoods such as maple, oak, cherry, and walnut are popular choices due to their strength and durability. Softwoods such as pine, cedar, and fir are also used but are less desirable as they can be prone to splitting or warping.

Exotic woods such as ebony, cocobolo, and rosewood are also popular due to their unique grain patterns and colors. However, they can be expensive and difficult to work with. Some turners also use reclaimed or salvaged wood, such as old furniture or barn wood, which can add character and history to a piece.

Ultimately, the choice of wood depends on the project and the skills of the turner. It is important to select a wood that is appropriate for the job and to take into account the wood's grain direction, moisture content, and density to ensure a successful outcome.

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