Using a Mini-Lathe is an easy way to make a variety of useful items. I specialize in making pens from both wood and acrylic. I plan to have a Mini-Lathe set up to demonstrate and promote the Lake Michigan College Fab Lab.
I have always loved making things with my hands. I learned basic woodworking at my grandfather's side, and took shop and art classes in High School. I typically have about 4 or 5 projects underway at any one time, and several UFO's (UnFinished Objects) that I pick up and work on as the mood strikes. I make everything from knitted hats to chainmail jewelry, to turned pens and bottle stoppers. I took a class at LMC's Fab Lab back in February and had my first experience working on a lathe. Since then, I've been spending most weeknights at the Fab Lab making pens and improving my skills on the lathe. The pens are fairly quick to make, so are less likely to become yet another UFO. I'm hoping to expand my skills with practice and someday tackle bowl and pepper mill turning.