Pretty good rule, the elbow. Turners of bowls who don't rest the tool at
centerline like them a bit higher, so they can use long-handled tools braced
against their hips. I have to turn over the bed exclusively, so my tools
are always pretty much in the same position.

Which brings us to the second part - use the legs you have gratefully. You
sacrifice a lot of delicate "body English" by placing your butt on an
immovable object. if you're still having back problems, try the old trick
of putting one foot up on a low stool while you're doing fairly static
things and/or keep a couple styles of footwear available so you can change
and load your feet differently. I rest a foot while sanding, and sometimes
while hogging, and can hold my old body in front for as long as my bladder
can stand it.

"Dave jackson" wrote in message
link.net...
Hi,
I am new to turning and am having a great time learning to create
different things on my lathe. I decided on a Jet 1236 to compliment the
other Jet machines I have and so far am pleased with it. However, there
is
one problem I aim to fix this weekend. After spending a short time
turning
my back seems to get terrible aches. After DAGS I've read that the
centerline of the lathe should be at about elbow height. Anyone have an
opinion on this? I'm 6'4, so this would mean raising my lathe about 10
in.
or so. Also, does anyone sit while turning? I seem to remember barstools
being quite comfortable to sit on for a couple of hours at a time,
although
since getting married a few years ago, have not been on one lately. I
think
it would bring me to the right height with the lathe though. Ant thoughts
on this would be greatly appreciated. thanks, dave