First, review the lathe chapter in Power Tool Woodworking for Everyone. In addition, review the sharpening chapter for invaluable tips and techniques for sharpening your chisels. This textbook should have been included with the other manuals and instructional materials that came with your Shopsmith machine. If you don't have a copy of this textbook, it is readily available through the Shopsmith Web Site.
If you have a friend, neighbor or relative with turning experience, ask him (or her) to provide some personal instruction.
If there is a local woodworking club or organization in your area, attend a meeting or two in order to find a member who might be willing to help you.
If there is a retail woodworking store in your area, ask them if they offer woodturning classes or know of a local woodturner who might be willing to provide some instruction.
Click on any (or all) of the YouTube links below for video woodturning instruction. We have selected these videos as a great way for you to start getting the instruction you'll need.
Return to starting page on the lathe.