Disabled turning

[Wgbeattie]

Hi All,

I was reading the thread about disabled turning.

After finally managing to sort lathe out, I realised that the bench was too high.

I do need to sit you want to build new bench / stand so I can sit. The normal advice I believe is for spindle centre at height of elbow.

Would this still apply for when sitting. When sitting my elbow approx a metre heigh, and Axminster 305 height to centre is 350, also I thought about 70cm, seems really small , likes school desk..

Anyone please what they find best

Appreciate any advice.

Gordon

 

[silver]

Hi Gordon,
Not sure I can help but I have been researching some stuff myself as I can't stand too long due to spinal issues.

I am using a high (bar type) stool currently. Makes me feel like I'm at the bar anyway..

Have a look at this. Wheelchair Woodworking #1: Woodturning with a Disability - by Jamie Speirs @ LumberJocks.com ~ woodworking community

There is an Isaac Curran, think he was on linked in at one point. Maybe worth messaging him for advice as he does quite a bit of woodturnings from his wheel chair.

There was a wheelchair wood turners club in Scotland if I remember rightly, someone on here may remember it and post you to the right directions..

Also a link here for you to have a look at.

http://aawcontentsource.org/aaw_cs1_pdf/WF0404p18-22.pdf

The elbow theory still works according to the last link.

would also be interested to see what this topic brings up.

Good luck.

 

[Wgbeattie]

Thanks I will check links.

Am not in chair but have neuro issue which affects leg and lower spine issue.

So like you bought a bar stool.

Thanks for advice

Gordon

 

[Penpal]

I commend you use a height adjustable swivel chair and find your own level. Height does matter, in my case I am still over 6 feet tall and need room for legs and arms.I also press my pens with a bearing press that is mounted eye height next to the lathe ,a spin around to the huge mill drill.I do apply organisation and method. With a direct overhead fan to atmosphere for the very fine dust works for me. All my pens are made seated.

Peter.

 

[Curly]

Hi All,

I was reading the thread about disabled turning.

After finally managing to sort lathe out, I realised that the bench was too high.

I do need to sit you want to build new bench / stand so I can sit. The normal advice I believe is for spindle centre at height of elbow.

Would this still apply for when sitting. When sitting my elbow approx a metre heigh, and Axminster 305 height to centre is 350, also I thought about 70cm, seems really small , likes school desk..

Anyone please what they find best

Appreciate any advice.

Gordon

The "standing rule" doesn't apply to a seated turner if the lathe is tilted towards you. Vicmarc make a sit down lathe that is basically their bench lathe on a height and tilt adjustable stand. With it set when you are sitting comfortably and your elbow at your side your forearm follows a line to the spindle. Instead of pointing at the lathe spindle perpendicular to the floor when standing your arm will have a more acute angle when sitting. The amount depending on what is comfortable for you.

The Vicmarc is not cheap being that it is a premium line of products but the way they have the lathe positioned is something you could rig from a sturdy bench. Even a normal height one. You could get in the ballpark by sitting in the chair you want to use and point or hold a tool where you think it should be when holding in both hands and use that angle and height as a starting point. Then you can make a hinged top, perhaps a piece of a solid door and some heavy duty door hinges, fastened to a bench or wall to mount your lathe to. A couple heavy adjustable legs at each end would support it, allowing you to roll under it with your legs. I know I have seen plans for free standing wood versions before too.

Pete