Lathework: A Step-by-Step Introduction

Learn metal turning from the ground up with practical projects that build real workshop confidence.

Lathework: A Step-by-Step Introduction is a beginner-friendly guide to the metal turning lathe from respected model engineering author Harold Hall, developed through the pages of Model Engineers' Workshop magazine. Assuming no previous experience, this book introduces machine tool operations through a carefully chosen series of practical workshop projects that teach skills by doing.

Across 12 practical lathe projects, readers move step by step from complete novice to confident lathe operator. Each project is extensively illustrated and supported with full workshop drawings, making it easier to follow the process, understand the setup, and build practical metalwork skills that can be applied to more ambitious model engineering and home workshop tasks.

• Begin with no prior lathe experience and learn through a clear novice guide approach
• Build skills progressively through 12 practical projects that introduce essential techniques
• Follow extensive illustrations and full workshop drawings for every stage of the work
• Develop confidence with machine tools and gain the practical skills needed for future projects
• Add useful items to your workshop equipment while learning sound engineering techniques

By working through the projects, readers gain hands-on experience, useful shop knowledge, and the confidence to tackle more advanced lathework. This 140-page guide is ideal for novice model engineers, home machinists, and anyone interested in practical craftsmanship, workshop projects, and learning how to use a metal turning lathe with confidence.

Harold Hall worked as an electrical control systems engineer for thirty-five years before becoming editor of Model Engineer's Workshop magazine. He is the author of numerous books on workshop practice, including Metal Lathe for Home Machinists, The Metalworker's Workshop for Home Machinists, Milling for Home Machinists, and The Milling Machine for Home Machinists.

Alex du Pre is a lifelong model maker and model engineer who spends much of his spare time in his small home workshop. His work has appeared frequently in the modelling press and he has published a book on dividing techniques. Professionally, he is a naval architect and chartered engineer.