I am a student at the Art Institute in Set Design and currently we've been working on the mini lathe at school. I would really like to have one at home but am not sure which is the best one to invest in. In our tool shed at school we are using a Jet brand, but I've been hearing that it is a cheap brand to buy? My main uses would be I suppose for turning simple things like candlesticks, bowls, pieces for furniture like leg chairs etc.(for now). I am a newbie and am just looking for good advice on which lathe to buy so I don't end up investing in a poor lathe. My price range would be between $100-$600 which I realize is not very high but as a student it's all I can afford right now.
Thanks!