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What is the best wood for turning bowls?

Turned Oak Bowls

Choosing the right type of wood is crucial for any woodturning project. Still, it becomes particularly significant when turning bowls, where the wood’s characteristics can profoundly impact the process and the final product. As a pole-lathe turner, my experiences have taught me that not just any wood will do, especially when it comes to creating…

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Discover Traditional Woodcraft with Me: Pole Lathe Turning Course at the Bodgers Ball

Students from the Bodger's Ball 2023

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…

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From Tree to Bowl with JB Woodcrafts: A Pole Lathe Masterclass

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…

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A Guide to Sourcing, Storing, and Working with Greenwood

Wooden Logs

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?…

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Greenwood Basics: The Art of Pole-lathe Bowl Turning and Related Heritage Crafts

Green Wood Students

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…

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Traditional Crafts and Greenwood Woodworking

Bodgers

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…

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How to Choose the Best Wood for Traditional Bowl Turning

Jon on a Pole Lathe

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…

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Preserving Cultural Heritage: The Importance of Supporting Traditional Crafts

Pole Lathe Course Burwahs Manor

Traditional crafts have been an integral part of human culture for centuries. From bowl-turning to textiles, these art forms have not only served practical purposes but also played a significant role in shaping cultural identity and preserving heritage. In recent years, however, traditional crafts have faced increasing threats, including competition from mass-produced goods and a…

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