Monthly Newsletter...Vice President’s Message:April 2010 In my experience woodturners are a breed apart from other woodworkers. As a whole I believe that these differences can be broken down into two parts, the philosophical differences and the physical differences. I believe that the philosophical differences can be summed up in one word – secrets. I have limited experience with other forms of woodworking but in my experience many non-turners, luthiers in particular, tend to hold on to their personal secrets; whether it’s finishes, jigs, or certain techniques. Every turner I’ve ever met has answered every question asked of them, shared every technique they use, and freely given of their personal knowledge. I’m willing to admit that my sample size is too small to draw this broad conclusion and that there are certainly exceptions (Sam Maloof comes to mind). Physically the differences are more dramatic. As turners we force a sharpened steel tool into a moving piece of wood. All other forms of woodworking that I’m aware of rely on a sharpened blade moving through a stationary piece of wood. Additionally with very few exceptions turners create round or partially round forms. When straight lines are used they’re most often only found on spindles which tend to have round cross sections. We also tend to use sections of trees that are often ignored or even discarded by other woodworkers. Crotches, spalted wood, roots, pieces with curl or other figure, and pieces with voids are not only used by turners they’re prized and even sought out. Many woodturners also tend to use green wood for at least a portion of their work. Cabinet makers, luthiers, and furniture builders wouldn’t be caught dead using wood with any significant moisture content. Whatever the differences between the various forms of woodworking what we all have in common is our material of choice, a passion for what we do, and a sharp tool. Everything else is just details. Jason Clark March 2010 Newletter February 2010 Newletter January 2010 Newletter December 2009 Newletter November 2009 Newletter October 2009 Newletter Arizona Woodturners Association © 2009 |