For the beginning woodworker, few tools are as essential and versatile as a good wood lathe. But there are thousands of options out there. How is someone relatively new to the trade supposed to figure out what to invest in? We’re here to help you make the right turn from the start. Read on for […]

A metal lathe plays a key role in so many different machine shop jobs. So, getting to know this versatile machine tool is an important first step for beginning machinists.  This article will provide an introductory overview of the basic operation of a metal lathe.  How a Metal Lathe Works A lathe does its job […]

You can get a lot done quickly while working with wood in a CNC router. But that’s not to say it’s always easy. CNC machines are fast, but you’ll often encounter the same issues you would if you were using a manual machine.  Different types of wood have a wide range of variability and unique […]

Have you tried some of the fun wood lathe projects we’ve highlighted before? If so, we hope you found them mentally rewarding. And maybe you wondered: Can woodturning be financially rewarding, too? Well, you’re in luck! Read on for 13 beginner wood lathe projects that can make you money … 1. Wooden Bangle Few accessories […]

It’s precise. It’s efficient. It’s the state of the art. No wonder CNC (computer numerical control) is the platform of choice for so many types of modern manufacturing processes.  In this guide, we’re going to focus on the dynamic duo of CNC machining: turning and milling—the two most popular machines around the world. Why and […]

If you have some machining skills and entrepreneurial aspirations, setting up a home machine shop could be a dream come true. But of course, it’s going to cost you. Your major pieces of machining equipment can run up to several thousand dollars each, so it is worth doing your due diligence. To help you make […]

CNC (computer numerical control) machining makes possible some of the coolest, most complex metal parts you can imagine. It can be a thrill to program a CNC and watch it work its magic by efficiently cutting metal at high precision. Want in on the action? If you’ve got some manual machining chops and want to […]

Aluminum is a soft and ductile metal used in a wide range of applications. Should be easier to machine than harder materials, right? Not so fast, my machinist friend. Because of aluminum’s high thermal conductivity and low melt point, you need to manage several tricky issues when machining this popular material to avoid tool damage […]

A lathe and a milling machine are the two most important workhorses of any complete machine shop. With either one, you can perform many of your fundamental machining techniques. Each is great at cutting away metal. But there’s an essential difference between these machines. And that difference means that each one is best suited to […]

Do you love making things with metal? Do you thrive amid the sights, sounds, and smells of a modern-day machine shop? Maybe it’s time to transform your passion into a business. Assuming you have some solid experience in machining, setting up your own machine shop can be a great adventure. It’s a chance to showcase […]