LatheSim

Editors' ReviewDownload.com staffOctober 23, 2002This creative program simulates a lathe to help users virtually experiment and design new forms for carving wood, but the learning curve might send some users back to more traditional tools. LatheSim's interface is full of menus to help users control the virtual lathe or chisel and view angles. Users can define the rotating log and use the sliders to individually adjust the chisel and control the depth, but it's sometimes difficult to make precise carvings. Users also have the ability to customize the lathe's speed and camera angle to meet their specific needs. Even though users can adjust the image colors, properties, and light levels, the graphics in the 3D environment could be improved. Beginning woodcarvers may find this application helpful, but experts might be disappointed in what LatheSim's 15-day trial has to offer.