Hello fellow crafters and woodworking enthusiasts! I am delighted to invite you to a unique learning opportunity I’ll lead on the 9th and 10th of May at the Weald and Downland Outdoor Museum. My courses are part of the Pre-Fest Coures (the Ball takes place on the 11th & 12th of May). Join me for…
From Tree to Bowl with JB Woodcrafts: A Pole Lathe Masterclass
Hello! I’m Jon Baily, your guide to the enriching world of traditional green wood woodworking. My passion lies in the ancient pole lathe turning techniques. A craft that connects us to our past embraces the essence of nature, and rewards both the heart and hands. I aim to share this beautiful journey through my YouTube…
Harvesting Greenwood: A Practical Guide
In my last blog (A Guide to Sourcing, Storing, and Working with Greenwood), I mentioned harvesting greenwood in passing. Today, we’ll focus on how to harvest greenwood, especially for crafting wooden bowls, although the information will be useful for all greenwood users. Safety is crucial if you own or have access to woodland and plan…
A Guide to Sourcing, Storing, and Working with Greenwood
Starting a hobby that uses greenwood is rewarding, however, it can be confusing for a novice. From understanding its unique properties to sourcing it sustainably, there’s much to learn. Dive into my guide on “Sourcing, Storing, and Working with Greenwood” to unlock the essentials of this engaging craft. What is Greenwood? So, what is greenwood?…
Greenwood Basics: The Art of Pole-lathe Bowl Turning and Related Heritage Crafts
Greenwood working, an age-old tradition, is crafting greenwood into beautiful, functional objects. At the heart of this tradition is the pole-lathe, a unique tool that’s been the cornerstone of many greenwood crafts, including the mesmerising art of bowl turning. This article delves into the basics of greenwood and the enchanting world of pole-lathe bowl turning…
How to build a pole-lathe
Creating your own tools and machinery is a tradition as old as human civilisation, providing a unique sense of satisfaction and achievement. Today, we are going to delve into this age-old practice by guiding you on how to build a pole-lathe, often referred to as a bowl-lathe. The pole-lathe is a fascinating piece of equipment,…
Traditional Crafts and Greenwood Woodworking
Woodworking is an age-old craft practised for centuries, offering a fulfilling and rewarding way to create beautiful and functional items that can be used and cherished for years to come. There has recently been a renewed interest in traditional crafts, such as greenwood woodworking. Greenwood woodworking involves working with green (recently felled) wood and embracing…
How to Choose the Best Wood for Traditional Bowl Turning
Bowl turning is an art form that requires a deep understanding of wood types and their characteristics. Choosing the right wood for your project can make the difference between a successful bowl and a failed one. In this article, I will discuss the factors to consider when selecting the best wood for turning bowls, focusing…
JB Woodcrafts in the Press – My First Pod Cast
Greenwood woodworking is a fascinating journey into the world of traditional craftsmanship. I was thrilled when Paul and Josh from JCR Builds approached me for an interview. Their dedication to building an online presence around woodworking resonated with my passion for the craft. Our conversation was enlightening for their audience and a reflective moment for…
Burwash Manor Hosts The Bodgers’ Ball
Burwash Manor, a collection of converted farm buildings in the picturesque village of Barton near Cambridge, will host this year’s Bodgers Ball from the 5th to the 8th of May. The event celebrates traditional woodworking techniques, mainly green woodworking, and brings together woodworkers and artisans worldwide. What Can Visitors Expect? Visitors to the event can…