I shopped around for an inexpensive mini-lathe so that I could learn pen-turning. Sears had one that an experienced friend said looked like a good deal, so I ordered it. It arrived right on schedule and included not just the lathe, but a set of tools and a pen kit so that I could make my first pen.
I used the lathe this weekend and today am looking at a beautiful wood pen - made by me! Thank you, Sears! I got much more than I expected in my order.
This little lathe is a great starter and works great for what I need right
now. If I expand my projects I might have to upgrade but for now it does what I want.