In 2009 when we discovered what it was going to cost to have our kitchen redone by a professional firm, I decided to purchase all the tools necessary and do it myself. Over the next year or so I acquired all the tools and converted our basement into a nifty little woodworking shop. After completing the kitchen renovation, our daughter asked me to make a center post and legs for a very nice veneered table-top that had been given to her. At that time about the only tool I didn't have was a lathe so I picked up a used Delta Midi with an extension and completed the task. That was it for me. Got hooked and drawn into the vortex from that point forward. Flipped that machine and got a Jet Mini and flipped that for a Jet 1236 and flipped that for a Powermatic almost 4 years ago. I've settled in on the fact that I'll probably never be much more than a weekend warrior when it comes to turning but I do produce a few nice pieces from time to time. Our local AAW chapter has been a great place to pick up instruction and tips for building skill level and creativity.
- Dave Delo