thanks, me too
So, I have a question when it comes to shaping the yoyos on a lathe - any tips on making sure both halves are symmetrical? Would it be worth printing out (or drawing out) a quarter of my yoyo shape, cutting out the shape and use the negative portion of the cut as a guide to make sure I’m close to the desired shape I’m going for? See pic below - would fit template around blank as I begin to shape it.
I know I can pencil mark areas as well so I know where to begin and end the curve, calipers are a must.
Mini lathe comes in tomorrow, looking forward to starting this adventure that’s been a long time in the making (likely this weekend I’ll give it a whirl, still need to get a set of tools and get a few blanks cut out)
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You can certainly cut a template to test symmetry. It may be a great help. I’ve never used one, personally.
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Vernier calipers, yes.
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I’ll probably be making some of these out of plywood once I settle on a shape I want to repeat
Hubcap: Very nice. You have tweaked my interest.
I looked up Jarrah, it sounds really cool. There’s so many kinds of cool woods in Australia. And so many of them sound indestructible! 
I guess that’s what it takes to survive a harsh climate.
thanks!
no, although i would recommend getting a pair with metal jaws if you don’t already have some.
I do actually, has sharper points, lock, and thumb slide for fine tuning.
Edit - Pic of the metal ones:
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that’s perfect.
I made a yoyo shaped object today. That’s code for a completely rubbish yoyo. I made a mistake when turning it and went with it instead of abandoning it. Should have abandoned it.
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Is the problem the axle and that bump out? It’s interesting.
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Today’s project(s)
The completed one sitting on the motor was originally this one below. Super light but it works!
Walnut one needs an axle, gonna pick up some dowels tomorrow to work with.
So far, enjoying this cheap lathe, great gateway into crafting yoyos!
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Awesome
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Aside from putting some kind of finish on the wood, here’s my first real throw, heavily inspired by the Axl Elite. Nearly same specs, does use a 3/8" axle that isn’t ideal but matches the a-size bearing of its metal counterpart.
No idea where to go on finishes, I know I’ve seen some rub oils onto the yoyo to give it a nice sheen but no idea what it is I should look for.
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I think walnut oil is supposed to be best for walnut. If the oak is likely to chip then use linseed, or any other hardening oil. Mostly I use furniture restoration oil/wax blend, no idea what brand is in your local hardware store.
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Second attempt on the lathe. Pretty happy with how it “turned” out. Still lots of room for improvement.
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