newbie turning question

[smallboat]

From what I've heard and read the tool support should be at or "just below" the center of the workpiece.
Since the center is always fixed on a given lathe, why is the height of the support adjustable?

I feel like I'm missing something obvious.

Thanks
Steve

 

[FredP]

lathe tools are different thicknesses and individual tools are presented at different angles depending on the cut you are trying to achieve.

 

[aplpickr]

For shear scaping the tool rest is MUCH lower. Perhaps an inch or more below center, it just doesn't work right if at center height.

 

[smallboat]

Fred and Bill- thanks

I thought it might be the difference in tools and the "angle of approach"
Most everything I've done is with the roughing gouge or the skew.
I'm still feeling my way and should probably get some more instruction before my bad habits become ingrained!

Thanks again

 

[aplpickr]

Join a turning club. There are 7 AAW clubs in NC. You are surely close to one of them. Clubs in Greensboro, Hickory, Concord, Raleigh, Charlotte. Any $ spent on dues or travel will be re-paid in used tool purchases or wood, demos, mentoring, etc. Have fun! Turning is a big sickness.

 

[Acelectric]

My wife and I are looking to take one of Chesspy's chess set making classes. Maybe you and one other can get together and take his class sometime in the near future.

 

[smallboat]

Funny you mention that.
My son and I were talking about doing just that.

 

[Acelectric]

Sweet. We were thinking end of April first of May time frame. Would that work for you?

 

[jskroman]

My wife and I took the first class from Chessspy. You will not regret it.
We highly recommend it.

 

[smallboat]

Ace- I was thinking of later into the summer.
The next several weeks are pretty full.