Thoughts on woodturning

Master woodturner, the late Russ Fairfield, said he liked woodturning because it is both Art and Craft. He explained the "Art" of woodturning is to emphasize those natural shapes that offer their invitation to be held, and whose simplicity does not detract from the natural beauty of the wood. The "Craft" is in having the skills to accomplish this goal. Thanks Russ for so beautifully stating why woodturning is so fascinating.

As I've met and interacted with other woodturners, I've come to appreciate a common thread among them. Woodturners enjoy sharing with each other what they have learned. They generally aren't people who need to keep their "trade secrets" to themselves, but readily share their "Craft" with all who will take the time to listen.

From time to time, some have asked me how I do certain things in my woodturning. In the spirit of sharing the "Craft" I have occassionally written tutorials about processes and techniques I use. Rather than just let those reside on my computer, I'll place them on this webpage a few at time when for some reason I can't be out in the shop turning and learning myself. I hope you find them interesting and/or thought provoking. Always be ready to deviate from what I write in these articles. A lot of the fun is in improvisation. Different methods work best for different people. These are just some things that work well for me and that I gladly share with you.