Quote:On some pieces running the lathe faster will make it easier with less catches, but you have to make sure you piece is not too much out of balance.
Eh. I think it's debatable. It may seem to run smoother at faster speeds, but if you're still new to turning, when you do get those catches, you get more damage than if it was at a slower speed. Not to mention it scares the bajezzus out of you. I've seen some people let go of gouges in scary catches. Not cool. I prefered starting at slower speeds, then building as I got more aware of how the tool works, for those smoother turning and cleaner cuts.
Quote:As for holding the tool, I started out holding it at the end or at least closer to the end. It worked out ok, but I was getting a lot of catches, cause I couldn't hold the tool steady enough when roughing out. I then started holding the handle higher up, so that the handle rested on my forearm, for shorter tools, and on my longer tools I can tuck it into my side. This gives me much more control.
I think it's an issue of comfort, and how far you're over the tool rest; I hold most of my tools only by the top half of the business end. I don't bother with holding the butt end, i feel no difference.
The one major exception is bowl gouges. I've been told, and most definantly am an advocate for bracing the handle into your gut or hip, and sway, not moving your arms at all. Not only does this produce more smooth, natural curves, but it does a hell of a job stabilizing the handle during those heavy rough-out cuts.
Also junior: You're scared of scrapers?!