Tip #30
Shopsmith Lathe Duplicator Tutorial
Click here for a printer friendly version of Tip-
Pg. 1-3, Pg 4-6, Pg 7-9, Pg 10-12, Pg 13-15, Pg 16

Although lathe turning is often considered one of the most creative and rewarding types of woodworking, it can also be one of the most frustrating--especially for the new or inexperienced woodworker. That's because many projects require several matching pieces-such as two lamps, four table legs or a set of salad bowls--and it usually takes quite a bit of practice to develop the necessary skills to turn these matching pieces by conventional methods.

The lathe duplicator eliminates this problem and makes it possible for anyone to turn as many duplicate pieces as they need after only one or two short practice sessions. In addition, the duplicator allows you to enjoy the lathe and create freehand turnings without having to learn how to hold, use or sharpen ordinary lathe chisels.

These capabilities are possible because of the lathe duplicator's unique design. Instead of using ordinary chisels, the duplicator has cutters which are mounted securely to a separate tool rest assembly. A follower with the same profile is installed directly above the cutter. By guiding the follower along a template or pattern mounted above the stock, the cutter will duplicate the profile in the workpiece below.

Continue to Setup and Features