- 1). Lay the center square over the end of the workpiece. The center square provides a corner-to-corner line through the center. Mark both diagonals with the awl. Turn the piece and mark the opposite center.
- 2). Punch holes with the awl where the diagonal lines cross. Drive the awl from 3/8-inch to 1/2-inch deep.
- 3). Set the spur center firmly in one center mark and tap the center into the wood. Drive the spur center's blades deep enough for a firm purchase on the workpiece.
- 4). Set the live tail center in the center mark of the opposite end and drive it firmly into the wood. Rotate the center frequently, and use light mallet blows to avoid damaging the center's bearing.
- 5). Set the spur center in the headstock and hold the end of the workpiece against it. Set the live center in the tailstock, then slide the tailstock against the other end. Lock the tailstock down and tighten the live center with the drive wheel. Lock the tailstock spindle into position.
- 6). Rotate the workpiece manually as you adjust the tool rest. Lock the tool rest no more than 1/4-inch from the widest axis of the workpiece. The corner farthest from balance comes closest to the tool rest as the piece turns.
- 7). Stand to one side and start the lathe at its lowest speed. The square workpiece appears cylindrical while rotating, but anything out-of-round shows as a translucent shadow. Carefully chip away the waste with the roughing gouge. Stop the lathe and reset the tool rest closer whenever necessary.
- 8). Increase the lathe's turning speed as the piece comes into balance and nears the true cylindrical form.
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