You can make all sorts of custom screw-drive centers for the lathe quickly and inexpensively by utilizing particleboard screws. These screws, which have only recently become commonly available, feature large, wide threads with tremendous holding power. If your local hardware store doesn’t carry them, try the Woodworkers’ Store, 21801 Industrial Blvd., Rogers, Minn. 55374-9514; (612) 428-2199.

To make a screw drive, mount a piece of wood to a small faceplate, turn a disc to the desired diameter and mark the center. Now remove the disc from the faceplate, drive the particleboard screw through the disc from the back and remount. The combination of the wide-thread screw and the wood-to-wood friction will give the drive good holding power.

Ken Picou, Austin, Tex.

Fine Woodworking Magazine, June 1989 No. 76

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