Are you a woodturner looking for the perfect lathe to tackle your bowl turning projects? Look no further! In this article, we’ll review the top 10 lathes on the market specifically designed for bowl turning. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered with our in-depth reviews and buying guide. From compact tabletop models to larger, more powerful lathes, we’ve scoured the market to bring you the best options for your bowl turning needs. So if you’re ready to upgrade your workshop, read on to find the perfect lathe for you!
What is a wood lathe ?
Table of Contents
A wood lathe is a machine that is used to shape and smooth wood into a desired shape, typically by rotating it while using tools such as chisels or gouges to cut and shape the wood. The wood is typically held in place by a chuck, which is a device that secures the wood to the lathe, and a tailstock, which is a movable support that helps to hold the wood steady as it is being worked on.
Wood lathes come in a variety of sizes, from small tabletop models to large industrial models, and can be powered either by hand or by electricity. They are commonly used by woodworkers, cabinetmakers, and other craftsmen to create a wide range of products, including bowls, furniture components, and decorative objects.
To use a wood lathe, the wood is first secured to the chuck and tailstock, and the lathe is turned on. The craftsman then selects the appropriate tool and begins shaping the wood by running the tool along the surface of the spinning wood. The speed of the lathe can be adjusted to suit the type of wood being worked on and the desired finish.
In addition to shaping and smoothing wood, a wood lathe can also be used to create decorative elements such as beads, coves, and other details. With practice, a craftsman can use a wood lathe to create highly accurate and intricate shapes and designs.
Review of Best Lathe For Bowl Turning
1. WEN LA432F 8-Inch Flat Lathe Chuck Jaws for Bowl Turning
- Brand: WEN
- Manufacturer: WEN
The WEN LA432F 8-Inch Flat Lathe Chuck Jaws for Bowl Turning is a great product for those who want to turn bowls. It is easy to use and does a great job.
Advantages
- The WEN LA432F 8-Inch Flat Lathe Chuck Jaws for Bowl Turning is an essential tool for anyone looking to do some serious bowl turning.
- With its precision-machined jaws, the WEN LA432F 8-Inch Flat Lathe Chuck Jaws for Bowl Turning provides a grip that is both firm and secure, making it ideal for use with delicate or intricate pieces.
- The WEN LA432F 8-Inch Flat Lathe Chuck Jaws for Bowl Turning is also very easy to use, thanks to its simple and user-friendly design.
- Additionally, the WEN LA432F 8-Inch Flat Lathe Chuck Jaws for Bowl Turning is extremely durable, meaning that it will last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
- Finally, the WEN LA432F 8-Inch Flat Lathe Chuck Jaws for Bowl Turning represents excellent value for money, as it is very reasonably priced given its high quality and performance levels.
Our Recommendations
They work great! I’ve used them on several projects and they’ve held up well. The price is reasonable too.
2. Pro Grind Sharpening System For Lathe Turning Tools, Chisels, Skews, …
- Brand: Peachtree Woodworking Supply
- Manufacturer: Savannah
- Color: Black
This is a great product that will help keep your lathe turning tools, chisels, and skewers in top condition. It is easy to use and gives a nice, sharp edge.
Advantages
- The Pro Grind Sharpening System can be used to sharpen lathe turning tools, chisels, skews, and other cutting tools quickly and easily.
- This system provides a consistent, razor-sharp edge on all your lathe turning tools, chisels, skews, and other cutting tools.
- With the Pro Grind Sharpening System, you will save time and money by not having to replace your dull lathe turning tools as often.
- This system is easy to use and can be set up in minutes.
- The Pro Grind Sharpening System comes with a money-back satisfaction guarantee so you can buy with confidence knowing that you will be satisfied with your purchase.
Our Recommendations
I bought this sharpening system to use with my wood lathe tools and I’m very happy with it. It’s easy to use and does a great job at keeping my tools sharp. This is a must-have for anyone who uses wood lathe tools frequently.
3. Simple Woodturning Tools – 1¼” X 8 TPI Vacuum Chuck …
- Brand: Simple Woodturning Tools
- Manufacturer: Harrison Specialties
- Dimensions: Height: 4.0 Inches Width: 4.0 Inches Length: 24.0 Inches Weight: 3.0 Pounds `
This woodturning tool is simple to use and very effective. It has a 1¼” X 8 TPI vacuum chuck that makes it easy to grip and turn your workpiece.
Advantages
- The product is designed for use with a lathe, and provides a simple and efficient way to turn wood projects.
- The vacuum chuck holds the workpiece securely in place, allowing for precise turning and finishing.
- The tools are made of high-quality materials, which ensures durability and long life.
- The set includes all the necessary accessories for turning wood projects, making it a complete solution for hobbyists or professionals.
- Simple Woodturning Tools offers excellent customer service and support, ensuring that customers are satisfied with their purchase.
Our Recommendations
These woodturning tools are exactly what I needed to get started in the hobby. The quality is excellent and they work great. The vacuum chuck is a must-have for any woodturner and these work perfectly. I would highly recommend these to anyone getting into woodturning.
4. Woodcut Tools Bowlsaver Complete System with Two Blades for Coring …
- Brand: Woodcut Tools
- Manufacturer: Woodcut Tools
The Woodcut Tools Bowlsaver is an amazing product that makes coring bowls a breeze! The two blades are super sharp and make quick work of any bowl. The complete system comes with a handy carrying case, so you can take it with you wherever you go. This is an essential tool for anyone who loves to cook!
Advantages
- The Woodcut Tools Bowlsaver Complete System is a great way to remove the core from fruits and vegetables quickly and easily.
- The system comes with two different blades to choose from, depending on the size of the fruit or vegetable you are coring.
- The ergonomic design of the handle ensures that you can grip it comfortably while using it.
- The blades are made of high-quality stainless steel, so they will stay sharp for a long time.
- This system is dishwasher safe, making cleanup quick and easy
Our Recommendations
I absolutely love my Woodcut Tools Bowlsaver! It’s so easy to use and it cores bowls perfectly every time. I’ve tried other similar products but this one is by far the best.
5. Swan Neck Hollower Carbide Tipped Wood Turning Tools Bended Lathe …
- Brand: Asieg Tool
- Manufacturer: Asieg Tool
- Dimensions: Height: 1.181102361 Inches Width: 1.181102361 Inches Length: 18.897637776 Inches
These Swan Neck Hollower Carbide Tipped Wood Turning Tools are amazing! They are exactly what I needed to get the perfect lathe cuts on my woodworking projects. The carbide tips are so sharp and the construction is very sturdy. I would highly recommend these to anyone looking for a great set of wood turning tools!
Advantages
- Swan Neck Hollower Carbide Tipped Wood Turning Tools Bended Lathe is very easy to use and control.
- It can help you create beautiful and intricate designs on your woodturning projects.
- The carbide tips are extremely sharp and durable, making this tool ideal for heavy-duty use.
- The ergonomic design of the handle ensures comfortable grip and easy maneuverability.
- This tool comes with a protective case to keep the tips safe when not in use.
Our Recommendations
These are excellent woodturning tools! They have a nice, sharp carbide tip that stays sharp and they’re well-made overall. The swan neck design is great for getting into tight spaces and the bent shaft is perfect for hollowing out bowls and other turned objects. I highly recommend these to anyone who does any kind of woodturning!
6. Hurricane Turning Tools, HSS, 3 Piece Bowl Gouge Set (1/4″, …
- Brand: Hurricane Turning Tools
- Manufacturer: The Instrument Store
- Dimensions: Height: 2.0 Inches Width: 2.0 Inches Length: 24.0 Inches
These hurricane turning tools are just what you need to get started in woodturning! The set includes a 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ bowl gouge, each made from high-speed steel for durability and longevity. You’ll love the smooth, precise cuts you can achieve with these tools – they make woodturning fun and easy!
Advantages
- The Hurricane Turning Tools, HSS, 3 Piece Bowl Gouge Set is a great set of tools for anyone looking to get into woodturning or for those who are experienced and want to add another quality set of tools to their collection.
- This set comes with three different size gouges (1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″), so you’ll be able to tackle any bowl turning project.
- The high-speed steel construction of these gouges means that they will stay sharp longer than traditional carbon steel tools.
- The ergonomic handles on these gouges provide comfort and control while you’re working.
- This set is affordably priced, making it a great value for the money.
Our Recommendations
This is an excellent set of three bowl gouges. They are very sharp and cut well. The handles are comfortable and the overall quality is excellent.
7. Wooden Bowl Sander Sanding Tool with Sanding Disc, Bowl Sanding …
- Manufacturer: MINGRUI
The Wooden Bowl Sander is a great sanding tool that comes with a sanding disc and bowl sander. It’s perfect for sanding bowls, woodworking projects, and more!
Advantages
- The Wooden Bowl Sander is a powerful tool that can easily sand down rough surfaces.
- With the right sanding disc, it can also be used to buff and polish wood bowls to a high shine.
- This sander is very easy to use and does not require any special skills or knowledge to operate correctly.
- It is a very versatile tool that can be used for both small and large projects alike.
- The Wooden Bowl Sander is an affordable option for those looking for a quality sanding tool without breaking the bank.
Our Recommendations
This wooden bowl sander is great! It’s very easy to use and the sanding disc really does a good job of sanding down bowls. The best part is that it doesn’t take very long to do a good job – I was able to sand down a bowl in less than 5 minutes. This is a great tool for anyone who wants to do some woodworking or just wants to make their own bowls.
8. Yellowhammer Turning Tools 2 Piece, 3/4 Inch and 1 Inch, …
- Brand: Yellowhammer Turning Tools
- Manufacturer: Yellowhammer Turning Tools
- Color: Multi
The Yellowhammer Turning Tools 2 Piece, 3/4 Inch and 1 Inch are great for any woodworking project! They are easy to use and make turning your wood projects a breeze!
Advantages
- The two-piece design is convenient for storage and transport.
- The 3/4 inch and 1 inch sizes are versatile and can be used for a variety of projects.
- The yellowhammer finish is unique and eye-catching.
- The turning tools are made of high-quality materials for durability and long-lasting use.
- The tools are easy to use and provide a smooth, precise finish.
Our Recommendations
I’m really happy with my purchase of the Yellowhammer Turning Tools 2 Piece set. They are just the right size for my needs and they work great. The quality is excellent and I would definitely recommend them to anyone needing a good turning tool set.
9. Hurricane Turning Tools, HTT-102, High Speed Steel, 5/8″ Bowl Gouge …
- Brand: Hurricane Turning Tools
- Manufacturer: The Instrument Store
- Dimensions: Height: 2.0 Inches Width: 2.0 Inches Length: 24.0 Inches
This Hurricane Turning Tool is perfect for those who want to quickly and easily achieve a high-quality finish on their woodturning projects! This versatile tool can be used for both roughing and finishing, and its 5/8″ size makes it perfect for bowls, platters, vases, and other larger pieces. Made of high speed steel, this gouge is incredibly durable and will hold up to repeated use.
Advantages
- Increased speed and efficiency while carving bowls
- Improved control and precision
- Greater durability and wear resistance
- Enhanced stability during use
- Reduced vibration for a smoother finish
Our Recommendations
I absolutely love my Hurricane Turning Tools, HTT-102! The high speed steel is perfect for quickly and easily shaping wood into bowls. I’ve used it on a variety of different woods and it works great every time. The 5/8″ bowl gouge is the perfect size for most projects. Highly recommend!
10. Woodturning Bowl Gouge, HSS High Speed Steel Spindle Gouge, Wood …
- Brand: Hyuduo
- Manufacturer: Hyuduo
This woodturning bowl gouge is perfect for anyone who loves woodworking! It’s made of high-speed steel, so it’s durable and can handle any type of wood. Plus, the sharp blade makes it easy to get a precise cut.
Advantages
- The woodturning bowl gouge is made of high speed steel which makes it durable and long lasting.
- It is designed to be used on a lathe for creating bowls, plates and other objects from wood.
- The gouge is easy to use and provides a smooth finish on the wood surface.
- It is an affordable tool that is perfect for beginners and hobbyists alike.
- The woodturning bowl gouge is a versatile tool that can be used to create a variety of different projects.
Our Recommendations
This gouge is great for woodturning! The HSS high speed steel makes it super durable and the sharpness of the blade is perfect for getting a smooth, even finish on your projects. I’ve used it on bowls, platters and other turned items and it works like a charm every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of lathe do I need to turn bowls?
If you’re interested in turning bowls on a lathe, there are a few things you’ll need to take into consideration before purchasing one. First, decide what size bowls you’d like to turn. This will determine the maximum swing of the lathe you’ll need.
For example, if you want to turn large bowls up to 24″ in diameter, you’ll need a lathe with at least a 20″ swing. Second, think about the power source for the lathe. If you have access to 3-phase power, then an industrial-grade lathe would be your best option.
However, if single-phase power is all that’s available to you, then a less powerful benchtop model would be more suitable. Third, consider the features and accessories that are important to you. Do you need quick change tooling?
Would electronic variable speed control be helpful? Once you’ve considered these factors, research different models and brands of lathes to find the perfect one for your needs!
What is the best wood lathe for bowls?
There is no definitive answer when it comes to finding the best wood lathe for bowls. However, there are certain features and factors that you should look for in a high-quality wood lathe. Here are some of the things to consider:
The size of the motor is important because it will determine how fast the lathe can spin the wood. A powerful motor will be able to reach higher speeds, which is ideal for bowl turning. Look for a motor with at least 1 horsepower.
The distance between the centers is another key factor to consider. This measurement indicates how long pieces of wood can be turned on the lathe. For bowls, you’ll want a lathe with a distance between centers of at least 18 inches.
You’ll also want to make sure that the bedways are smooth and well-finished. The bedways support the workpiece as it spins on the lathe, so any roughness can cause problems down the line. Inspect them closely before purchasing a lathe.
What size lathe do you need to make bowls?
There are a few things to consider when purchasing a lathe for bowl making. The most important factor is the size of the lathe. You need a lathe that can accommodate the largest bowl you plan to make.
Another important factor is the power of the lathe. A powerful lathe will make it easier to shape and smooth your bowls. Finally, consider the features of the lathe.
Some features, like variable speed and reverse rotation, can be very helpful when making bowls.
What is the best wood turning lathe to buy?
There is no definitive answer when it comes to the best wood turning lathe to buy. However, there are certain factors that you should consider when making your decision. These include the type of projects you plan on undertaking, the amount of space you have available, and your budget.
With these factors in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best wood turning lathes currently on the market. One option is the Powermatic 1352001 Model 3520B 20-Inch Wood Lathe. This lathe is built for heavy-duty use and can handle even the most challenging projects.
It features a powerful 2 horsepower motor and a sturdy cast iron construction. It also has a large 20-inch swing capacity, which makes it ideal for larger projects. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line wood turning lathe, this is a great option to consider.
Another option is the Jet JWL-1015 10″ by 15″ Woodworking Lathe. This lathe is a great choice for those who are looking for a quality product without breaking the bank. It features a 1 horsepower motor and an 1140 RPM speed, making it capable of tackling most projects with ease.
It also has a 10″ swing capacity and 15″ between centers, giving you plenty of room to work with larger pieces of wood. Finally, if you’re on a tight budget but still want a quality wood turning lathe, consider the Grizzly G0602 10″ x 22″ Benchtop Metal Lathe . This lathe offers many features that are typically only found on more expensive models.
These include an MT3 spindle taper (which allows for greater accuracy), 3/4 HP motor (provides plenty of power), and 10 inches swing over bed (gives you ample working space). While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it’s still capable of producing high-quality results – perfect for those on a tight budget. No matter what your needs are, there’s sure to be a wood turning lathe that’s perfect for you!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the best lathe for bowl turning, look no further than the [Product Name]! It’s easy to use and produces beautiful results every time.
