Lathe Woodturning

Attention woodworkers: woodturning lathe question?

I wonder if there is a way to set up a Wood Turning lathe (or similar machine) to be pre-programmed or pre-rigged to follow an exact pattern of movements every time, so that you don't have to completely guide the movements by hand. I know factories have stuff like this, but what about for home use that wouldn't cost a fortune?

Sears sell an item that can be somewhat programed to do what I think it is you're after, It called a "copy crafter". By no means automatic and the actual cutting is done by a router and various bits. Great machine for duplicating round turning like Table Legs (fancy turnings) ect. The last time I was aware the cost was about $200.00.
AS I recall, this machine was built using a series of cables, gears and was turned by hand crank, which governed the speed of advance of the cutting source ( the router) the rpms of the piece being cut. Also would turn as I remember a full table leg, about 32 to 40 inches, and around 6" in dia.
Try sears tool department, and maybe a used one can be found on e-bay.
This other link mentioned was for a metal lathe and there is no way to convert them to automated machines.
Sears also make and sells an attachment for any Wood Lathe that will copy, (manually) from and original or template, which is what I use and have for many years. Good luck.

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