Build Your Own Rose-Engine

If you have been to a SPSW meeting, you most likely have seen work produced by Bob Sievers using his rose-engine lathe. Bob produces intricate, detailed designs on his turnings.

If you would like to try your hand at ornamental turning (OT) with a rose-engine lathe but don’t want to shell out $2,000 – $3,000 there is an option for you.

The Ornamental Turners International (OTI) is a virtual chapter of the American Association of Woodturners. Their website has great information about OT including articles and photo gallery, as well as a discussion forum and members only area. They happily share their passion for OT and this is where your rose-engine option comes in.

Jon Magill, a member of OTI, created a full set of plans for building a rose-engine lathe out of MDF. For about $300 and a half-sheet of ¾“ MDF you can build your own rose-engine.

You can find the Introduction and Overview, detailed drawings and construction instructions on the OTI website. You can also find videos of an MDF rose-engine lathe in operation.