Turning Because It Is Fun
Woodworking in general is fun, functional, relaxing and can be profitable. Wood turning is the fastest growing segment of woodworking. With a society intently focused on tech gadgets, computers, smart phones, tablets, etc. we have a huge vacuum in the tactile arena. Our young people today tend not to grow up making things with their hands, but rather designing them on a computer using nothing more than their fingertips.
At the woodworking show in West Springfield, Massachusetts this past week, I heard the same comments I always hear wherever I go, “I haven’t turned since high school and I’ve always wanted to get back to turning. I enjoyed it so much.” We turn wood because it is just flat fun to do. And when you are finished, you have something unique that you created with your own hands either as a gift or as an item to be treasured by someone else for purchase often for many years.
The number one category of lathe turned item is pens. Right behind it is kitchenware, bowls, plates, platters, spoons and spatulas, salt and pepper mills and shakers right down to rolling pins. Who doesn’t enjoy receiving a handmade item they can use and enjoy every day? I try to never be without a writing instrument made by some member of my family. My son Chris has become expert at casting mixed media turning blanks from pen blanks and bottle stopper blanks to bowl and vase blanks. I take pride in each and every one he creates. They are fun.
I would encourage you to keep it simple, easy and entertaining for anyone you are introducing to the craft of turning wood. If they decide to go deeper into the craft later, then they can tackle the challenging stuff. For now, keep it on the fun side. Great fun projects include pens, spinning tops, bottle stoppers, turned lidded boxes, acorns, seam rippers, pepper mills along with salt and pepper shakers, miniature bird houses, small vases, weed pots, pendants, turned ear rings, bangles, baby rattles, spoons and spatulas, plates platters and bowls. Remember this stuff grows on trees!
We are in Columbus, Ohio this week and arrived without incident I’m glad to report. We look forward to seeing our friends once again and to showing you all of the new gadgets and items we brought for this time around because wherever you go, there you are. Due to some technical glitch I can’t seem to resolve, I am not able to retrieve my voice messages from the office phone. I am getting my emails so that is the best way to contact me. I apologize for any inconvenience with the phone messages.
My inspiration this week is partly scripture and partly song.
Ecc 3
1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: Turn, turn, turn.
