Woodturning you can live with. We will make a variety of wood turned objects you can use in your everyday activities. Basically, a deep dive into art you can live with. Options will include; Kitchen items such as utensils, measuring scoops, rolling pins, bowls, bottle stoppers tongs and more. Turned wooden pens and candle holders, a stool with turned legs and top and perhaps Christmas ornaments as time allows.
This class is designed as a broad look at turning of both spindle turning between centers and face plate work such as bowls and platters. Expect to learn to set up and use the lathe for a variety of applications. Experienced turners may move on to more advanced projects and multiples. You will learn to use gouges, skews and scrapers, chucking systems, and finish work on the lathe. It will be a busy and productive week.

The Clearing has a very well-equipped shop for wood turning. You’ll have your own lathe, tools and supplies. If you have any of your own tools and safety equipment, please feel free to bring them along, since learning something new is usually easier with familiar tools. Tom will contact students prior to class with a detailed supply list.

Tom Hurst started his career in agriculture and forestry after growing up on small dairy farm. He spent 35 years teaching agriculture, environmental sciences and woodworking at levels from elementary to graduate students. He has helped to design and build multiple community shops. Making things from trees was always a presence, the home shop has been an integral part of life since 1986. His woodworking has focused on the beauty and utility of everyday items. Food related items, furniture including chairs, and small watercraft. He is active in woodworking guilds in Michigan, teaches furniture design in an architecture program and various programs around southwest Michigan. There are thousands of projects out there built under his tutelage. His Mantra: “Let’s go make some stuff”

Level: All Levels