wood turning lathe

[Kustom Beams]

What are the key features to look for when buying a wood lathe for a beginner?
For example, if I’m interested in turning wooden bowls and pens, what specifications and accessories should I consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable woodworking experience?

[wtnhighlander]

Bowls and pens are two very different applications for a lathe. Pens can be turned quite effectively with a benchtop 'mini' or 'midi' lathe, while bowls of an size require a machine with more mass, more power, and a greater 'swing' over the lathe bed. 

Beware, turning is a rabbit hole one can get lost in, quickly! 

[Mark J]

That's a really big question with a lot of different answers, none of which are "the only way" .  A lot depends on what you want to be turning (now and later), and on your budget and space available, etc., etc.  I can give you a few of my thoughts.  First is, if at all possible find a local woodturning club in your area and attend a meeting or two.  Local clubs and woodturners are a great resource, not only for advice, but used equipment, and mentoring.   I did a quick search for woodturning clubs in San Antonio and found Alamo Woodturners ( https://www.alamowoodturners.org/ ).  General woodworking clubs also have in their ranks a number of woodturners.  The American Association of Woodturners is a great resource.  They host a very active forum ( https://www.aawforum.org/community/ ).  

Keep in mind, too, that the lathe is only the first expense of getting started in turning.  There are a number of accessories you will want or need at the get go, and even more of these will be added to your list as you continue to turn.  

That said there are a few features that I think are essential for every turner.  Variable speed, with a strong preference for electronic control of speed.  Reversible motor.  A wide speed range, for finials and pens you may want to turn as high as 3000 RPM, but for sanding and applying (some) finishes you want to go very slow, so at least as slow as 100 ish.  There are a number of other features that some turners consider essential and others pass on, hence the "a lot of different answers" remark.  

To give you one example of a table top lathe that I think has a lot of great features (and not necessarily a specific recommendation for you), take a look at the Nova Neptune.  Also take a look at Jet 1221 EVS.  Again just to give you two suggestions to start with.  

[pkinneb]

I would add that your budget and expectations come into play. I had a Delta entry level lathe (full size) for many years and turned hundreds of pens and a couple of bowls on it. I think it was like $1,200 when I bought it but as stated above for 1/3 of that you can get a machine that will turn pens. Last year I purchased a Nova Nebula about $3,300 after discounts and absolutely love it. It will be my forever lathe and I spent the money knowing that.

@Mark J above, our resident turning expert, was instrumental in helping me make the right choice and I couldn't be happier with the Nebula. 

[h3nry]

At the other end of the spectrum ... someone gave me a small mini lathe (I think it was only $99 new) ... for turning pens, small handles etc it works great. Although it has an 8" diameter swing and I have turned a few bowls that size, it is woefully underpowered for things that big.

If I only ever wanted to turn small stuff, I would not need to upgrade ... but now my ambitions have outgrown the little lathe. But it has been a great learning tool ... and if I end up giving it away to the next beginner, I have lost nothing.

I think that at least as important as the lathe is to get good tools that you can keep sharp. If you buy expensive accessories like a chuck for a "starter lathe" make sure that it is easy to change the thread adapter for a bigger lathe.

no one had mentioned it yet, but in addition to tools and chucks etc, an important accessory is a full face shield.

[Beechwood Chip]

@Kustom Beams  I don't know anything about turning, but this video might be helpful.  Or, make a lathe yourself to save money.