Thread: Wheelchairwoodturners Ike

good help for people that are wheelchair bound or like me unable to stand to long that you don't have to give up wood turning
regards michael

I am in the design process for a lathe for a fellow turner who also has trouble with long stretches standing at the lathe. Any input would be greatly appreciated. we have discussed the option of being able to locate the headstock at anypoint on the bed so that turning off the tailstock end is possible. Also entertaining duplicator possibilities.

Suggest you look at the VL200 Sit Down Model that has been designed for people in wheel chairs and people who can't stand for long periods of time.

Originally Posted by chucky

Suggest you look at the VL200 Sit Down Model that has been designed for people in wheel chairs and people who can't stand for long periods of time.

but these Vicmarc lathes are priced outside most people with disabilities can afford
modifications to suit the mid price & cheaper lathes are needed
I have lowered my lathe so I can sit on a stool I may have to lower it lower to be able to sit in a normal chair if my back op does not work. I have seen a lathe stand that may be able to modify will look into it later. Will show I it works
Regards Michael

Originally Posted by oreos40

I am in the design process for a lathe for a fellow turner who also has trouble with long stretches standing at the lathe. Any input would be greatly appreciated. we have discussed the option of being able to locate the headstock at anypoint on the bed so that turning off the tailstock end is possible. Also entertaining duplicator possibilities.

There are many options out there as i have discovered thats how I found Ike and his set up some time ago.
I use the Nova 3000 and draughtsman stool and have turned up to 18" using the swivel headstock.
Woodfast duplicator looks good.

Originally Posted by chucky

Suggest you look at the VL200 Sit Down Model that has been designed for people in wheel chairs and people who can't stand for long periods of time.

Chucky I suggest you have a good look at that lathe and consider the whole picture of using it let alone the cost.

Originally Posted by coffenup

but these Vicmarc lathes are priced outside most people with disabilities can afford
modifications to suit the mid price & cheaper lathes are needed
I have lowered my lathe so I can sit on a stool I may have to lower it lower to be able to sit in a normal chair if my back op does not work. I have seen a lathe stand that may be able to modify will look into it later. Will show I it works
Regards Michael

Michael my neighbour has just had her back done takes time but she is only 37 a mate who is 64 also had his done an improvement but he hates exercise to strengthen the muscles he is also doing ok. Hope your op goes well.

Artisans on The Hill in Tanonee has a Nova converted to suit and is adjustable height wise.
Northern Rivers Turners at Alstonville attached to the House With No Steps has turners who have an adjustable lathe set up.

I build lathes.Or modify them for use. I don't buy them. I have on a couple occasions tried to start a discussion about lathe construction, but it appears that most are comfortable with the shortcomings of their lathe or content to just continue dreaming about the 6000 dollar lathes that really are no better suited for turning wood. The friend I am talking about has had the opportunity to sample several of the HC lathe offerings and found shortcomings in each. just thought it would see since someone else brought up the idea what others may think. It is frustrating to find that so many are so extremely closed minded about the craft. Limiting their own ability by what others can do and determining that if it is done in a specific way by one of the "masters" then it does not apply. I have honestly been searching for dialogue for those who think outside the normal guide lines. It is consistent that the typical answers are in the realm of "that's not the way it's done" or " I can do that...." but offer no help on how. I was fairly excited when I first stumbled across this forum, but as most others it is only a showcase for those who can turn, a place to moan about ruined peices, and very limited real instruction for those looking for answers.

I personally think that is a little harsh Oreos.

I enjoyed reading about your mods to the lathe as I build a lot of my own.

As with most Forums our membership is largely retired people who do turning as a hobby and whilst interested in other machines do not have the money, equipment or ability to do the modifications that you do.

They may not comment but their interest is there.

opinions cost nothing but time. I am not in a position to make an educated decision concerning sit down machines. many are. I can guarantee that one of my machines will cost way less than a one way or robust and perform as well for the intended purpose mabe better. Its like saying ones car is better than the other because it can go 150 instead of 100. What diferance does it make? one can get you a higher priced ticket. Most couldent handle the high speed anyway lol. The same people that complain that someone is making something too cheap complain about the high cost of a machine or the way someone is making something, as if because something isnt made traditionaly it isnt as valuable. not intended to be harsh but mabey a call to wake up. Often it can be true that something that is cheaper is also made out of cheaper material but not always! Sometimes someone has just been smart enough to make it better without spending more money on the process. Compare cap'n Eddie to most of the other brands of carbide tools. (deep breath) I'll go take my meds. lol

Here's a story from Victoria of a wheelchair user

Wheelchair Turning

Originally Posted by wheelinround

Chucky I suggest you have a good look at that lathe and consider the whole picture of using it let alone the cost.

I suggest that you read my original reply to this matter it states that I suggest that they look at the Vimarc lathe I have not mentioned pricing or any other matters regarding this lathe, also it may be helpful in making their own as stated.

Originally Posted by chucky

I suggest that you read my original reply to this matter it states that I suggest that they look at the Vimarc lathe I have not mentioned pricing or any other matters regarding this lathe, also it may be helpful in making their own as stated.

I did see that but even now can't see where you posted re suggestion of making their own?

Originally Posted by wheelinround

I did see that but even now can't see where you posted re suggestion of making their own?

Look at thread no3 it states that he is on process of design one. My thread is no 4 in response to no 3