Introduction

[Davidl]

I started machining as a hobby in my early 70's and bring a complete novice, I joined a number of forums to learn some skills. I have a little workshop that includes a table top lathe and a mill. I've now been pursuing my hobby for some six years and have produced a number of small (mantle piece size) working industrial steam engines based on 19th century designs. Fortunately I have CAD capabability so can modify plans as needed and also get a lot of fun preparing working drawings from photos of engines that appeal to me.
I found this forum some years ago and have picked up some great ideas, but until now I have not made a contribution. However, in pursuing my hobby, I have had to design and build a number of tools to solve an immediate problem. Here are some pictures that might be of interest.

[Jon]

Great first post; welcome to HomemadeTools.net

Can you tell us more about these builds?

[DIYer]

Thanks Davidl! We've added your Ball Turning Tool to our Machining category,
as well as to your builder page: Davidl's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Ball Turning Tool by Davidl

tags: ball turning

[DIYer]

Thanks Davidl! We've added your Vise to our Vises category,
as well as to your builder page: Davidl's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Vise by Davidl

tags: vise

[DIYer]

Thanks Davidl! We've added your Steady Rest to our Machining category,
as well as to your builder page: Davidl's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Steady Rest by Davidl

tags: steady rest

[mr95gst]

Thanks for sharing David. Tell me about your mill powerfeed. What motor are you using and what kind of power/controls?