Lathe Tool Holder Plans

Downloadable Plans

This unique and simple Lathe Tool Holder improves safety and efficiency while using your lathe.  The lathe tool holder mounts on the ways on either end of the lathe by sliding the cinch block under the ways.  The tool holder then may be swiveled to the front or back of the lathe. 

It safely stores your lathe tools, extra tool rests, chuck keys and other accessories.  Swivel the holder to the front of the lathe and your tools are securely held within easy reach.  So, no more reaching over the workpiece or precariously perching tools on the ways hoping they don’t fall off on your foot. 

Swivel the holder to the back of the lathe and your lathe tools, with sharp points down, are stored out of the way while not in use.  For lathes with ways that extent to the left of the headstock (e.g. the Jet 1236) the lathe tool holder can be mounted on either the left or right end of the lathe.

What you are purchasing here is a PDF document that includes a dimensioned diagram of the Lathe Tool Holder.  If you would like to purchase a completed Lathe Tool Holder, please contact us.

After you purchase our plan you will need:

• 1 each 3/4" x 16" x 24" Baltic Birch or similar plywood
• 1 each 3/4" x 2.5" x 5" Baltic Birch or similar plywood (scrap from above)
• 1 each 5/16" x 2" threaded shaft with knob
• 1 each 5/16" T-nut or threaded insert

Typical tools you will need to make the lathe tool holder:

• A ruler and compass for marking shapes on the plywood
• A  jig saw, scroll saw, band saw or similar saw for cutting curved outlines in plywood
• A 1" Forstner (preferred) bit with a drill press (preferred) or hand drill
• 1/8" to 1/4" roundover router bit if you want to ease the edges (recommended)
• 3/8" drill to drill the holes for the locking knob threaded shaft (you may need another drill size depending on your selection of a threaded fastener (T-nut or threaded insert)

This Lathe Tool Holder design is copyrighted by Paul Proffitt.  Sharing copies of the plans or publishing  without permission is a violation of the copyright.