In-Person Demonstrations
My in-person live demonstrations typically start with a general discussion about the technique, accompanied by images of pieces created using this method. While I am working on the demo piece, I often take a moment to use a whiteboard or display images to clarify specific details or thought processes. The demonstration includes hands-on turning interspersed with explanations on the whiteboard and through projected images. If you're interested in booking a live demonstration, please reach out to me.
In-Person Classes and Workshops
I occasionally host workshops in my studio and offer hands-on classes for woodturning clubs. Although I am not scheduling in-person classes or workshops at the moment, I am open to discussing tentative bookings via email.
Interactive Remote Demos
For my interactive remote demonstrations, I essentially do the same thing. There are photographs of pieces created using the technique, diagrams prepared in advance (instead of being made in real-time on a whiteboard), and occasional text to explain details. The turning is recorded beforehand, and I narrate the process while answering questions that come up as the video plays. The recording omits time spent sharpening tools (unless that’s a crucial part of the demonstration) and mounting pieces on the lathe. I can show more steps of the process with video than in a live, in-person demonstration. With a two-way video and audio link, I can rewind upon request and fast forward through repetitive sections if the audience prefers.
Each demonstration lasts around 1.5 hours, depending on the number of questions from the audience.
Current Demo Topics
The Lost Wood Process - I create spindle blanks made up of three laminated layers. After turning, the middle layer is removed, allowing the two outer layers to be rejoined into a turned object that isn't round. More details are available in my article in American Woodturner titled "Beyond Round: The Lost Wood Process" (August 2012), which can be downloaded from the Downloads page. As an example of this process, I demonstrate how to create a standard turned box that ultimately has an almond shape in cross-section (both inside and out). The demonstration covers the glue-up process (including grain matching), turning the box, and then disassembling and reassembling the layers. This should be clear and achievable for any of your members. Here are some pieces made using the lost wood process:
Therming - I discuss the construction of jigs and explain how to use them to create multiple curved surfaces on wood blanks. This represents a variation on multi-axis turning in which the axis of rotation does not lie within the blank being turned. More details can be found in my American Woodturner article "Beyond Round: Therming" (April 2010), available for download on the Downloads page. To illustrate this process, I demonstrate how to make a turned teapot body on five axes, resulting in a four-sided hollow teapot body. This should be understood by everyone, but it is technically challenging and should only be attempted by the more experienced turners in your group. Here are some pieces crafted using the therming technique:
Flame-texturing of highly figured wood - In turning a small bowl, I will demonstrate my technique for “flame-texturing” highly figured wood. The textured wood can be left “as is” or colored with multiple layers of acrylic paints using a dry brush technique. As an example, I turn, flame texture, and color a “popcorn bowl” to resemble stone. Burning and dry brushing are illustrated, and a doughnut chuck is described and utilized. This should be understandable and achievable for any of your members. Here are some flame-textured and colored pieces:
The design and construction of teapots - The presentation primarily focuses on various images of wooden teapots, accompanied by discussions on different methods of constructing them. The aim is to inspire members to think creatively and explore the various techniques that woodturners have employed. Please note that no turning will take place during this session. The content is designed to be clear and accessible for all members. Here are some sample teapots:
