Treddle lathes at MAFC

Lathe 1 

Stephen Kirk in Quakertown PA

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Lathe 1 next pic 

Stephen Kirk in Quakertown PA

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Lathe 2 

Stephen Kirk in Quakertown PA

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Lathe 2 next pic 

Stephen Kirk in Quakertown PA

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Re: Lathe 1 next pic

Warren in Lancaster, PA

>Roy Underhill had a lathe of this design at the Williamsburg conference in January. He pulled it out of his minivan all set up and we tried it in the parking lot. One of the thin rods across the bottom is the spring, and the band around the two rods can be moved laterally to adjust tension somewhat. I was able to turn alright, but compared to a lathe with a real pole it seemed like a toy- just not much power. Roy had a Xerox of the design in an old book, but I don't think a serious 18th century turner would have given up his pole for this style.

Great pictures. Thanks for sharing.

vlparisian - Houston

>My little brain is working on the treadle machine now. I think I can convert an old sewing machine into a miniature lathe for working pen blanks etc. Wouldn't have to add much, throw out the old sewing machine head and replace with a small lathe bed, tail stock, and live center. I bet I have most of the parts to throw a crude version together just laying around on shelves in the back shop at work.

Do you suppose my wife would miss one of her eleven or so antique sewing machines that she is convinced will someday be "valuable"?

Regards,

Victor

Yes!

Greg B�tit, Vergennes VT

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