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Since my last Artist’s Exhibition in
December, I have been focused on improving the quality of my work on three
fronts. First, I have stored all of my “store bought” bowl gouges and
started machining tools to meet my specific creative needs. I have been
focusing on the use of high speed steel square bits used primarily in metal
turning. I can now produce a custom profile to meet practically any
need and achieve an exceptional level of sustainable sharpness. I
mount the bits in cold rolled steel key stock that can be bent to improve
stability – particularly when working on closed forms. The flat base
of the key stock allows me to comfortably work up to 12 inches off the tool
rest freehand.
A second area of growth has been to better understand how
to manage green wood storage to enhance spalting. I harvest
essentially all of the wood I turn and currently maintain eight to ten wood
species in inventory.
My third step forward has been in finishing pieces.
With improved tooling, I no longer have to excessively sand on the
lathe. This, coupled with a better understanding of how to stabilize
“punky” wood before the second turning step, maximizes crispness of the
finished piece. I formulate the
finishes I use as well.
I now exhibit in two local galleries – Macon Arts (maconarts.org) and
Middle Georgia Arts Association (middlegeorgiaarts.org). One of my
goals this year will be to modify the Gallery Section of the Site to show
items currently for sale at each site. I am now accepting commission work
as well.
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Thank you for visiting my web site. I hope you enjoy
the information provided. I am a “second generation” wood turner.
It is a craft that I learned from my father
that he practiced well into his 86th year. His passion is my passion and we continue to share it whenever we
are together.
Woodturning is not just my hobby. It is key creative outlet that helps me balance family, a
professional and the need to foster personal growth. My hope is that you'll use the site as a portal for appreciating
nature's beauty. As you take a stroll through the gallery, note that I do
not add colorants to enhance the natural beauty of the wood. Enjoy the site.
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