The Lathe Book: A Complete Guide to the Machine and its Accessories Paperback – 15 April 2001

I've just began reading this book as I'm researching before getting into woodturning. I've given it 5 stars until there is a reason not to. So far some really interesting information. The book is well written and in depth....So far.

Great book !! Not had time to look all through it yet !! cheers 😃

Hey...before I read this book I was quite uncertain which way to approach the lathe.After having read it...I consider it "The Bible of Lathe Use".I still may not LOOK like I know what I'm doing....but this book sure helps me along and safely.I am still making big sticks into little sticks on the lathe...and yet I think that with this book's guidance there may just be potential for a bowl or spindle in my future.

It's certainly interesting and there are some good tips, but don't expect to learn to be a super turner from it.

Despite what "the most critical review" asserts (and, consequently, mistates) is that Conover "states that a minimum entry level lathe will cost you over $1,000." Page 29 of the book states that "a new entry-level lathe costs from $500 to $1000." Conover also provides tips on purchasing used-lathes. Also, the same reviewer implies that Conover is pushing Canadian products (which, as an aside, are frequently quite good). However, the cover pictures a Nova lathe, from a New Zealand-based company. Conover also describes Jet, Delta, and many other lathes from non-Canadian companies. The reviewer seems to have a problem with actual facts. My impression, Conover has written a good, easy-to-read book with a good overview of the subject. Although many topics are not covered in great detail, there simply is not enough room in one book for the myriad of topics possible under the broad heading of wood turning.