Raffans Book

[nellist]

Has anyone seen this book and is it any good for a beginner who has never used a lathe.
http://www.axminster.co.uk/product-Taun ... 376832.htm

 

[cornucopia]

yes i've got it
its o.k for the beginner but my first book and allot of other turners first book was - woodturning a foundation course by keith rowley -

 

[Paul.J]

I have Thisbook with the accompanying DVD.I think it is very good,though it's a lot easier to understand watching the DVD.

 

[TEP]

Hi nellist. IMO the only book to start off with for beginners is "Woodturning A Foundation Course New Edition" by Keith Rowley. It has about 40% more in it than the first edition of his book.

There are more advanced books about, but for a beginner it will almost take you by the hand.

 

[robo hippy]

I have the same book that Paul has, and it was my first. I read it cover to cover several times, went out to the shop to try things out, then came back in the house and read it some more. Then some things started to make sence. There wasn't a local club at the time.

A local club is the best for learning. Especially for me as I am one of those who learn better by seeing it being done, and then being able to ask questions. A DVD is a good alternative as well. I may have to get Keith's book, just to check out his approach.

If you do go to a club, or a forum with a question, you will probably get a couple of different answers. A bit confusing, but we all do things differently, and you will need to experiment to find out what works best for you.

robo hippy

 

[nellist]

Thanks guys the Rowley book it is then.

 

[mikec]

Hi Paul,

I have the Rowley book and agree it is a very good investment for starting turning. I also have some of the Raffan dvds and books and like them very much. A lot of the benefit you get from books and dvds depends on your personal learning preferences and where you are in the learning process.
The Raffan dvd using the skew chisel was like a light coming on for me and I now use the skew with great results and no fear.

Regards,

Mike

 

[big soft moose]

i have the rowley book and agree that its a good one, however the first turning book i bought was by dave regester - wood turning an individual approach. This contained enough info to get me started and was a lot cheaper than the rowley.

the tony boase books "wood turning master class" and "bowl turning master class" are also very good for inspiration (but keep them away from swimbo , at least till you have the skills and drills down, )

 

[davegw]

The first book I got, which I found very useful was The Lathe Book by Ernie Conover.

It certainly helped me get started.

 

[nellist]

Got the Rowley DVD from ebay for 99p.