Steady Rest

[Ira]

I would like to make my own steady rest, I know I've seen plans before but cannot find them on the web. Does any one know where I can look? Thanks again!
Ira

 

[Dr_dewey]

a similar request was posted a while ago.

http://www.woodturner.org/vbforum/showthread.php?t=405

 

[Bruce McElhaney]

I made one based on Dominic Greco's version ( Dr. Dewey's link) I bandsawed two pieces of 3/4" Birch Plywood for the frame, and recycled one of my kids old rollerblades for the wheels. So far I've only used it for drilling peppermills, but it works pretty good. Dominic said he built his a couple of hours, but It took me most of the day. Good luck.

 

[Ira]

Thank you Bruce!!! That is exactly what I was looking for. I knew I had seen it before but just could not find it. One last question, do you think MDF would be strong enough? I'm short on 3/4" ply but I have a ton of MDF laying around. Thanks again!
Ira

 

[Bruce McElhaney]

I'm no expert, but I believe MDF is too brittle for the job--Others might disagree. As my mother used to say, "Any job worth doing, is worth doing right." Why take a chance. You'd probably be better off running over to Home Depot and getting some Plywood. Don't know your lathe size, but 1/4 of a sheet ought to do it. Good luck on your project.

Bruce McElhaney

 

[Ira]

Yes I suppose you're Mom is right. I will probably shoot down to the lumber yard tomorrow, better safe than sorry. Thanks again.

Many happy turns!
Ira

 

[John King]

Checkout following:

http://www.newwoodworker.com/stdyrstpln.html

 

[Dario]

Here is a link to what I made...crude but works.

http://www.penturners.org/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=21389