“Natural Turnings” is a joy I’ve had for 35 years. I love to turn! Wood is such an amazing medium. I select my woods carefully, while still in the ‘tree’ or whole state. Usually lying on the ground or standing dead or in my firewood pile, I will notice some aspect of the wood that will make a great turning. I only work with ‘dead’ wood since nature does amazing things to wood after some time, particularly spalting, and dead trees are easier to find and acquire. Spalting is the dark lines in wood caused by fungus and moisture. There is so much dead wood around, there’s no need to bring down a live tree for turning. I try to include some natural elements in turnings like bark, worm holes, spalting, hollows, live or waned edges, etc. When this is combined with a fine finish, the contrast can be stunning. The imperfections anchor the finished piece to its source and remind the observer from whence it came, connecting them to the forest.
Creating something on the lathe is so much fun! Each turning is unique and they change and evolve as you work.
I use one piece blocks of wood from a variety of species including sumac, elm, maple, pine, oak, ash (white and brown), cherry, lilac, willow and others. I love turning new woods.
Prices: coasters – $4.00 each or 4 for $15.00; tops, tree ornaments, honey dippers – $15.00; napkin rings – $15.00; bracelets – $25.00, candle holders – $15.00 to $30.00; wine bottle stoppers – $25.00 to $35.00; baby rattles, foot massagers – $30.00; shaving brushes – $40.00, small bowls, lidded boxes – $30.00 to $60.00; rolling pins -$40 to $60.00; larger bowls – $70.00 to $250.00.
