Mike's Workshop Notebook

Simple Workshop Projects

These were among my first machining projects, selected for their simplicity and relatively quick completion. Each project incorporates a range of common machining operations while resulting in practical, useful tools for the shop.

Photos

Stops
I frequently use a Lathe Stop, particularly when turning to a shoulder. It establishes a fixed reference position, ensuring that the stopping point of successive cutting passes remains consistent.

The Mill Vise Stop serves a similar function to a lathe stop by establishing a fixed reference point in a workholding setup. This enables consistent, repeatable positioning when machining multiple parts or when performing operations on different faces of the same workpiece.

The Machinist Clamp was my first lathe and milling project. It involved several fundamental operations, including knurling. The finished part turned out well and has proven to be a practical and useful addition to the shop.

Tap Follower
An essential tool that I use frequently when threading on both the lathe and the mill. It provides reliable alignment and control during the threading process. The tool's center-pointed plunger is spring loaded. As the tap or die advances into the work, the spring maintains a steady, consistent pressure, helping to keep the tool aligned with the axis of the part. Care should be taken to avoid over-tightening the chuck or collet, as excessive clamping force can cause the plunger to bind.
Tap Follower Apart
The tap follower disassembled, showing all its components.
Nickel Plating
To help prevent rust, I nickel plated both the machinist clamp and the lathe stop..

Shown here is my simple plating setup. I used nickel coupons purchased online, a wall-mounted power supply, and a few clips from the parts bin, along with a plastic container and the plating solution. The solution itself is straightforward to make, consisting of water, vinegar, and salt. Detailed instructions are readily available on Instructables.com.

The plating process was quick and easy—both parts were plated in just a few minutes. One challenge I encountered was achieving good coverage inside holes and in the roots of threads. Agitating either the part or the solution during plating may help improve coverage, and is something I plan to try on a future project.

Safety Note: The plating solution (nickel acetate) should be handled with care. It is toxic if swallowed or inhaled, can irritate the skin and eyes, and may cause allergic reactions. Use appropriate protective measures, including gloves, eye protection, and good ventilation.