a wood lathe should have a speed range approx 200-2500. a motor that
turns at 1000-1500 say should be able to get the lathe turning with a
suitable range of pulleys.
a bit more info may be helpful ..
does your motor have a set of pulleys on it and what diameter are they
?
does the headstock of your lathe have a set of pulleys ? what diameter
?
do you wish to have one speed or several speeds to your lathe ?
do you move the motor or the belts to change speeds ?