Why woodturning?

Woodturning is an immensely popular pastime and many enthusiasts start at a young age, or perhaps even when they retire. And some may even become a professional. For most though, woodturning is an intensely satisfying hobby; but somewhere and somehow, the enthusiastic would-be turner needs to get started.


Where to get started...

The ‘where’ is easy to answer... go on one of our excellent courses in the Skill Centre here at Axminster to experience a complete range of turning activities. There are courses for beginners and advanced turners. If you can't make it to the Skill Centre, then the Skill Centre team can be found on Axminster Tools' Youtube Channel live three days a week presenting a series of Woodworking Wisdom how-to demonstrations, tips on getting the best form your tools and your questions answered.

How to get started!

The ‘how’ is slightly more complex in that it relies on the individual to do some background research around the area of interest and make a few informed decisions. Fortunately, there have recently been a whole series of woodturning buying guides published by Team Axminster on The Knowledge, which cover all aspects including choosing a lathe, chuck or the correct tools.

Having considered lathes, tools and PPE (personal protective equipment), the next question  is, “what else do I need?”

For anyone new to the hobby or contemplating starting, a cursory look through the turning section of the website can be a daunting prospect; with so much to take on board! For example, there are over 100 different sorts of woodturning tools and over 70 items in the section 'Woodturning Chucks'.

Get set to turn

Our Woodturning Starter Kits are a ‘one stop shop’ for all the basic stuff you'll require to get going.

The pack is available in six different options and contains either a SK100 or SK80 chuck, each now with a 5 year guarantee. Before purchasing a starter kit, it’s essential to know the spindle thread on your lathe; as the chuck in each pack is only supplied in the following sizes. If the spindle thread is not known, you can find it on the ‘specification’ section of the lathe in question. The spindle thread options are as follows:

SK100 Starter Kit - T01, T04M, T38 & T23

SK80 Starter Kit -  T01 & T04M

As well as the chuck, each starter pack contains a set of ‘C’ jaws, a faceplate ring and a screw chuck. All of which will fit the relevant chuck.

To complete the pack, the kit comes supplied in a very robust plastic case with a clip-on lid; which could certainly find a use in the turner’s shop for storing polish, wax or other consumables.

The only other thing you’ll need afterwards is some suitable wood!

It's your time to turn...

We're excited to see you start your new craft! If you're looking for some inspiration for one of your first projects why not try our How To Make A Rolling Pin! Or if you'd like some more advice on additional lathe accessories, take a look at this helpful buyer's guide.