INTRO TO MACHINING w/ Dave Walton Oct 14th & 16th

️ Intro to Manual Machining – Lathe & Knee Mill

https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6323259

Cost: $199 + HST
Date(s): Tuesday, Oct 14th & Thursday, Oct 16th, 2025 — 6:00–8:30 PM
Workshop: Metal Shop (Machine Bay)
Maximum Participants: 4

Course Description

Curious about the art and precision of machining? This hands-on course introduces you to the manual metal lathe and vertical knee mill, two essential tools for shaping and fabricating custom metal parts. You’ll gain a foundational understanding of how these machines work and learn to safely turn, drill, mill, and cut components to size.

Whether you're exploring machining for prototyping, repair, or creative builds, this course gives you the confidence and skill to take your ideas into the world of precision metal shaping.

Key Learnings

Safety & PPE:

• Hazards of rotating machinery: flying debris, sharp edges, and noise

• Proper use of safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, and hearing protection

• Importance of fitted clothing — no loose sleeves, jewelry, or neckwear

Machine Overview & Parts:

• Lathe: Headstock, chuck, carriage, cross slide, compound rest, tailstock, tool post

• Knee Mill: Column, base, table, spindle, vise, hand wheels, vertical crank

• Functions and controls of each component

Techniques You'll Practice:

• Turning parts to precise diameter

• Drilling with the tailstock

• Parting off, cutting threads, machining tapers and angles

• Calculating RPM using cutting speed formulas

• Milling flat surfaces, keyways, and drilled holes in shafts

• Cutting a flat surface on round stock

✅ Prerequisites

Basic understanding of shop safety recommended.

What to Wear

• Steel-toe boots

• Safety glasses (provided or bring your own)

• Fitted, non-synthetic clothing (cotton or denim preferred)

• Hair tied back; no jewelry or loose accessories

What to Bring

• Notebook and pen

• Water bottle

• All tools and materials provided

‍ About Your Instructor

Dave Walton grew up on a farm where fixing machinery was part of everyday life. His passion for machining began in high school tech classes, where he learned to operate lathes and both vertical and horizontal mills. After founding a machinery repair business, Dave returned to his roots by teaching others the same practical skills that sparked his lifelong interest. With a straightforward, supportive teaching style, Dave makes even the most intimidating machines feel accessible.