One of the basic and most versatile tool a do it yourselfer and hobbyist could have is a lathe machine. It is very versatile and could perform various function depending on the type of project you are working.

Lathe machine is usefull in turning, boring or grinding. Hobbyist and professionals could benifit a lot in investing on lathe machine. The only problem is lathe machine prices are high and prohibitive specially to hobbyist like me.

Since i do spent most of my time on my computer, i searched for an alternative and discovered lathe machines you can build even from recycled materials.

The most popular is the Gingery Lathe Machine. It simple easy to build, the materials are cheap and sometimes free and the best thing is it is your new project.

Heres a list of sites that i have browsed that give a detailed instruction in building a homemade and improvised lathe machine.

http://www.backyardmetalcasting.com/lathe7.html
http://www.aardvark.co.nz/pjet/spinning1.shtml
http://www.mini-lathe.com/Links.htm
http://www3.sympatico.ca/3jdw8/latheoutside2.htm

I will post my own design whenever i can build my own dream lathe machine..