advice wanted

Hi, I am new to pen turning and want to buy my first lathe. I am looking at an Excelsior mini. It only comes as the machine. What other parts do I need ie chuck, tailstock, mandrel etc. Also where is the best place to buy? Finally what size tool rest works best, 4” or 6”? Thanks so much for...

Hi everyone! I've heard that hardwood is better than softwood for turning. Is this true, and if so, why? Thanks! - Ekick

Hello Everyone! I had the wild idea of making my brother a cool wood pen for a Christmas present. Turned my first pen at Woodcraft in a Turn for Troops event and loved it! So I did a little digging into it and before I knew what had happened I had bought a lathe and over a dozen pen kits and...