Thread: age to start on lathe

Under constant, competent supervision, I'd say 9-11 is ideal. Old enough to be able to understand the reasons behind why things are done the way they are, young enough to not yet have the 'teen attitude.

I've been teaching a 13yo on weekends for the last year or so and he's just beginning to get on my nerves... Part of it is other things are taking his interests, he is growing up after all and part of it is he's starting to show the "knowitall's."

But even if he goes his own way, he knows enough to be safe if/when he ever takes up turning again.

let them at it!!!!!if they want to have a go start em on something small and access (is that how u spell it?) there confidence and then decide what to do with em.

i was 13 wen i learnt but would have loved to learn earlier.........people as young as 11 were allowed to use one in year 7 ww....its just unfortunate i was in the class with the teacher who didn't let us use lathes.

Originally Posted by lubbing5cherubs

HI What age would you consider a good age to learn on the lathe? I have two 11 year old that wants to learn the lathe. We are wondering at what age do you think would be appropiate to start on a lathe?
I look forward to your reply
Toni

When they are old enough to show an interest and ask. If they are mature enough to maintain concentration on what they are doing, they are old enough to work on something that has some hazards, with supervision of course.

I know some 7 yr olds who are mature enough to handle the responsibility, and some 30 yr olds that are not.

And as others have said, it is a matter of scale- crawling before walking, walking before running etc.

wat 11yo i was 9 when my grandpa let me use his and as he told my mum the right age to start is as soon as they ask go for it

Yeah - you may have missed the boat there a bit - I think I was around 9 or 10 when my Grandfather let me have a go of his lathe. Of course I am a lot out of practice now, and I have only just purchased my own lathe & I am still setting it up to use, getting sharpening gear etc.

Thanks for your reply. We were in mixed emotions. We decided it was ok but grandparents were telling us too dangerous. So we are going ot give them a try which timber would you say would be best to start them off with.
bye Toni

a softwood.....probably green cos its easier to turn.......dont get them to make any thing from green timber though, just see what they can do and how confident they are

Thanks Sterlo
Toni

Originally Posted by lubbing5cherubs

Thanks Sterlo
Toni

no probs

We're talkin about a kid that lives at winton right?

Can you trust this kid on a good horse?
Is he ok with a sharp knife in the kitchen?
Is he ok with dogs & snakes & barbed wire fences?

If yes then

He should be fine on a lathe with proper instruction.
With respect a lathe is much safer than many other power tools.

cheers

My 10 yo uses mine with limited supervision. I tend to hover around keeping an eye open.

If you think about it thier a lot safer than riding a bike , maybe a cut or a bruise but thats a lot less than getting hit by a car.:mad:

And better than the bloody mall!

My 10y/o is to learn the basics of turning these holidays. He knows some wood work basics and has own bench etc but has thus far deemed to pull apart everything in sight including things still in operation. close call for the angle grinder.:eek:

I've been teaching a youngster since he was 9, now 11. With good supervision they develop at an alarming rate - another year or so and I'll be the student!

I agree with SS11000 wish when I was 11 someone took the time to teach me. Now as an 'Oldie' I am having a battle to keep my brain and hands coordinating.


Always encourage the 'Youngies'