Machining A Top

The very first project I did in my studio design I machined a top to learn how to read a machining diagram, accurately measure parts, and use common tools in the shop....

Reading the Blueprint

First, I learned how to read machine blueprints. I learned about all the terms and tolerance measurements. Pictured here is the schematic I used to make my top.

The Lathe

I used the lathe to shape my top's handle and slant from a brass cylinder. I also used the lathe to drill and tap a screw hole on the end of the handle.

The Milling Machine

I used the milling machine to mill the holes and flats in my top.

Tolerance checking

After each step of the process, I measured my top to see if it was within the tolerances before moving on to the next step. And at the end I measured all the dimensions just to make sure. I was pretty accurate with my machining!

All finished!!

Here's a picture of my completed top! I got to screw in a cute little knob into the threads I tapped in the handle.