Intro to the Metal Lathe

Multisession Duration: 6 hrs completed over 2 days. By purchasing a ticket, you are committing to attend all meetings included in the multisession. Scroll down to reference the Agenda page to indicate which ticket to purchase for that session!

Class Description

If you are interested in machining and metal fabrication, this class is for you! Learn how to operate the iconic South Bend 9A lathe. It will provide a great starting point to your machining journey. By the end of the class, you will be prepared to take the tool test to use the lathe independently.

The materials fee for this class is $20. This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts Venmo.

Learning Objectives

• Safety - machine shop & lathe specific
• Lubrication procedure
• Basic turning theory and overview of types of tools
• Calculating and setting proper spindle speeds
• Setup tools, tool holders, and tool post for correct height and angle.
• Basic turning and facing operations
• Basic tailstock operations (drilling, live center)
• Basic work holding w/3 jaw chuck and/or 5C collets
• Understanding backlash and zeroing dials
• Basic turning to outside diameter dimension and length
• Power feed operation
• Introduction to parting off
• Cleanup procedure

Instructor - David Gabbé

David started his making journey as soon as he could hold a hammer. He is one of the Machine Shop repair volunteers and tool nerd. His training includes high school voc ed classes, university engineering classes, mentorship from Pat Warner and a few machinists. His teaching approach focuses on guiding students through the entire process from design and layout to machining parts.

Target Audience

Metal Lathe beginners and folks who are curious about Artisans Asylum's Machine Shop. Students who are 18 years or older.

Your Ticket Includes

• Aluminum round bar stock
• 1 HSS lathe tool
• Access to A2's Metal Shop for the duration of the session

Class Policies

PPE: Please bring or buy safety glasses. Safety googles are available but not as comfortable.

Attire: Closed toed shoes (preferably hiking or steel toe boots), clothing from natural fibers or blends. No loose fitting clothes, short sleeves are preferable, crew neck collar preferable. All jewelry and watches must be removed. Hair longer than shoulder length must be securely tied back above shoulders.

Light air conditioning is provided during summer classes.

Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies Here.

Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions.

*Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep.