Ken Moore makes a simple banjo-mounted rotary tool platform for the lathe, which allows you to add controlled decorative designs to either spindle or faceplate/bowl work.
I’ve been using a lathe for a good few years and own several texturing devices, including the Robert Sorby Spiralling & Texturing system. However, I wanted to create a different method for adding decoration to my work, so chose a hand-engraving tool similar to a Dremel rotary multi-tool and around the same size. In order to use it, I’d need to find a way of positioning the tool near the workpiece, as well as the ability to move it and cut into the material.
A few pointers to ensure a good result:
- Push down when moving the tool across the workpiece – if you do find yourself lifting it, you’re likely to experience slight nicking as you near the end of the cut.
- Make a second platform with a thinner top – this will allow you to gain closer access to the lathe’s centre point.
- Make another baseboard – so you can use a flex cable and larger router bits.
