Learning Wood Lathes: Lets make tops!

In this hands-on class, you’ll learn the foundational skills of woodturning by creating your own wooden tops. Perfect for beginners or anyone looking to sharpen their lathe skills, this course covers everything you need to know to safely and confidently shape wood on the lathe.

We’ll begin with a safety overview and an introduction to the tools you’ll be using, including carbide scrapers and chucks. You’ll learn how to mount a blank, rough shape the profile, form the tip and stem, and refine the top using modern turning techniques. Along the way, we’ll talk about grain orientation, tool control, speed settings, and how to avoid common pitfalls like tear-out, imbalance, and catches.

By the end of the session, you’ll walk away with a couple your own hand-turned tops and a solid foundation in spindle turning techniques. All materials and safety gear are provided.

Whether you’re new to the lathe or looking to build confidence with curved forms, this class is a great entry point into the world of woodturning.

No prior experience needed for this course, all supplies and materials are provided.

Please wear comfortable well-fitted clothing, close-toed shoes, put your hair up, and be prepared to get a little dirty!

0:00 – 0:15 | Welcome & Safety Overview

• Instructor and student introductions
• Overview of class goals and what you'll make (spinning tops)
• Shop safety basics
• Lathe operation fundamentals
• Tool handling
• PPE (face shields, appropriate clothing, hearing protection if needed)

0:15 – 0:30 | Tools, Wood & Lathe Basics

• Introduction to key tools: spindle gouge, carbide scraper, parting tool, calipers
• Choosing a blank and understanding grain orientation for strength and balance
• Lathe components: tool rest, speed controls, locking mechanisms
• Proper tool rest positioning and speed selection for small work

0:30 – 1:10 | Mounting & Shaping the Top

• Mounting the blank (chuck or between centers)
• Roughing down to round and establishing proportions
• Shaping the body of the top
• Forming the stem and tip
• Practice: stance, grip, and controlled tool movement
• Refining shape for balance and clean lines

1:10 – 1:40 | Refinement & Detail Work

• Fine-tuning the tip for good spin performance
• Adding design elements (beads, coves, or simple details)
• Checking balance and symmetry
• Avoiding common issues: catches, tear-out, and wobble

1:40 – 1:55 | Sanding & Finishing

• Sand through grits (120 to 320+ as time allows)
• Proper sanding technique on the lathe
• Apply finish (e.g., friction polish, oil, or wax)
• Optional: adding color or simple decoration

1:55 – 2:00 | Wrap-Up & Spin Test

• Parting off and final touch-ups
• Test spinning and adjustments if needed
• Final tips and takeaways
• Q&A and cleanup

Hello everyone! I’m John. I’ve been passionate about woodworking for about six years and am really enthusiastic about fostering a community within CCM. Originally from Lubbock, TX, I relocated to Denver in mid-2016 to pursue a career in software engineering. I’m eager to teach classes and contribute to expanding both the woodshop and our community offerings at the Makerspace. Besides woodworking, I have a keen interest in 3D design and printing, software development, gaming, and climbing. I live nearby, so you’ll probably see me around quite often! I look forward to connecting with all of you and building something great together.

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