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…
Preserving Cultural Heritage: The Importance of Supporting Traditional Crafts
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…
How to Clean and Maintain Your Wooden Bowls
An Introduction to Pole Lathe Turning
Pole lathe turning is a type of woodworking that allows you to create stunning, long-lasting pieces and take your craftsman skills to the next level. With a few easy tips, start creating breathtaking works of art by learning how to use a pole lathe. Understanding the Basics of Pole Lathe Turning To begin pole lathe…
The benefits of teaching bowl-turning on a pole lathe
Teaching greenwood bowl-turning is a new venture for me and is something I have only recently started offering. It is surprising just how much I have enjoyed the experience. I am finding satisfaction in passing on my knowledge to the next generation of bowl turners and enabling more people to get a taste for this…
Please Support Independent Makers
In recent years, large corporations have devised various sales tactics to get more of your money from you. These include Sunday trading, New Year Sales (that start on Boxing Day) and Black Friday. A consequence has been the homogenisation of the high street and, in many instances, the loss of independent stores. I often see…
Jon Baily introduces pole-lathe turning to Beds & Herts Woodturners
A common characteristic of many people in the greenwood working community is the willingness to share skills. I’m no different. I have enjoyed teaching traditional bowl turning to individuals and small groups of people using a pole-lathe. In November, I was invited by the Beds and Herts Woodturners group to demonstrate pole-lathe turning to its…
Learn to turn a wooden bowl on a traditional pole lathe
Join me for a day to learn how to turn a wooden bowl. This course is suitable for complete novices or for those that have some experience in either greenwood working or those used to using an electric lathe. Please note that bowl turning on a traditional pole lathe is a physical activity, and those…
How the spindle lathe is used in traditional woodworking
A spindle lathe is a traditional woodworking tool that has been used for 100s of years to create cylindrical pieces of wood, for example, chair legs and components. A lathe is a woodworking machine with a rotary axis, meaning it spins a piece of wood between two axes. As the wood is spun, the woodworker…