Getting Started With Your Rikon Mini Lathe

Thank you for purchasing a Rikon mini lathe. We’ve put together some useful information to help you get the most out of it. Although this will be of particular benefit to beginning turners, we hope those with more experience will find something of value here too.

What should I do first?

The lathe will require some minor assembly. You will need at least one helper. The instructions are very clear, the parts are easily identifiable, and everything goes together cleanly and accurately. Take your time and work carefully. You shouldn’t have any issues, but if you do, call or email us and we’ll be happy to help. Specialized tools are included, but you will also need a #2 Phillips screwdriver and an adjustable wrench.

As you are unpacking the lathe, clean the shipping film from the cast iron surfaces using solvent/degreaser. The rust preventative coating you remove should be replaced with a silicone-free surface treatment such as Boeshield T-9, Veritas Tool Wax or any silicone-free furniture wax. You should repeat this periodically to keep your lathe rust-free, especially before and after a session of turning green wood.

What should I consider when setting up my lathe?

1. Setting the lathe against a wall is typical, often in front of a window. If you have the room, consider placing the lathe at an angle to the wall or even perpendicular to it. This will provide the best access, and you’ll still have wall space for storage of all the tools and accessories you will inevitably accumulate.


2. Consider adding some mass (sandbags work!) to your lathe stand. This helps prevent the stand from moving and deadens vibration.


3. Make sure the immediate work area is uncluttered both around the machine and on the floor.


4. Good general lighting is required, supplied by a window or overhead fixtures. For detail work, a directional task light is also helpful. A light with a magnetic base can be positioned anywhere on the machine.


5. Lathes are notoriously difficult to rig for dust collection. Use as large a port as possible. An air scrubber nearby will help minimize fine dust in the ambient air.

With your lathe set up and running, it’s time to get turning! Next, we’ll get into some of the details of operation, including working safely, how to position the tool rest, and changing speeds.