Lime wood, also called basswood, is one of the softest hardwoods. It has a fine, even grain, so the gouge takes off thin shavings without tearing, and even a beginner's first project turns out smooth.
Every blank already has a centre hole in its end. The driving centre goes straight in, the piece runs true, and nobody has to mark and punch the centre by hand. The set comes in two diameters: 20 mm for spinning tops, small figures and pens, and 30 mm (the largest size the PLAYmake lathe takes) for wheels, handles and bigger figures.
Turned parts can be sanded on the lathe, then painted or varnished.
Good to know
Press the driving centre firmly into the hole before switching on.
Take off the first 1–2 mm to get a round, smooth surface, then shape the piece with light pressure.
A slight wobble at the start is normal for natural wood.
