Youth Program 2026
Beginner Youth Lathe Turning
This class is with students with 0-4 previous sessions of lathe. Students with 3 or 4 may choose Beginner or Advanced Lathe depending on their comfort and desired progression.
Students will learn the basics of turning wood on the lathe, including safety, proper mounting techniques, and how to use the tools. Projects in the first few weeks will be decided on by the instructor, but students will have a chance to pick their own projects in the final few weeks. Returning beginners will have the ability to modify or step up instructor led projects if they feel ready to do so.
Each student is assigned to a lathe and learns basic skills including preparing the workpiece for turning, mounting, facing, spindle turning, bowl and hollow form turning. Beads, coves and other decorative techniques are practiced.
Basic woods are provided for all instructor led projects. More exotic woods are available via generous donations for students to pick when making their own projects or they can bring their own wood/logs and instructors can assess and process it for the students' use.
Expected progression and example projects:
Spindle / between centers: mallet, wand rolling pin
Spindle / in a chuck: eggs, spheres, spinning tops, snowmen
Bowl: smaller ~ 6" simple bowl of a softer wood
Spindle/mandril or drilling: pens, birdhouses, simple ornaments, small flower pot
Student picked project(s) can be any of the above or a different project they plan with the instructor.
Safety is covered as an essential element of the class.
Requirements: Student must meet all requirements to be enrolled in the Greenville Woodworkers Guild (GWG) Youth Woodworking Program and have been duly enrolled therein. All papers relating to injury, liability, safety and parental responsibility must have been duly executed. Safety: A face shield is mandatory and will be provided in the class. Closed toes shoes are required.
Class fee: $70
