Greenwood FAQs

Greenwood Bowl FAQs

I make bowls from British hardwoods, such as oak, ash, walnut, cherry, maple, sycamore and yew.
I source greenwood from tree surgeons or other woodworkers. The majority of the wood I use would have been used as firewood.
Yes. I turn bowls in different sizes depending on the requirement. If you have something in mind please contact me directly
Yes, the bowls I make are finished with food-safe walnut oil or tung oil ensuring that the bowls are suitable for hot and cold food.
To care for and maintain a wooden bowl, it is essential to: Avoid prolonged exposure to water, as this can cause the wood to warp or crack. If the bowl does get wet, dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth. Apply a food-safe oil or finish: A food-safe oil such as walnut or tung will help protect the wood and keep it from drying out. Whilst not absolutely necessary, oiling your bowl once a year can help it look its best. Avoid extreme temperatures: Do not place the bowl in a hot oven, microwave or dishwasher. Avoid storing it in a damp or humid area, as this can cause the bowl to warp or crack. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause the wood to fade or change colour over time. Clean the bowl with a soft cloth or brush and mild soap if it becomes dirty. By following these steps, you can prolong the life of your wooden bowl and enjoy it for many years to come.
Yes, I offer bowl-turning taster sessions and 1-2-1 classes. Check my Greenwood Courses page for details on courses.
Where I have stock of a particular style, the photograph is representative of the bowl you will receive. Please let me know if you would like a photo of the actual bowl being purchased.
My bowls are finished with a polymerising (drying) oil. Generally, I use walnut or tung oil. The oil forms a protective coating that can be refreshed by re-oiling your bowl once a year.
Yes, all of the bowls on this website were turned by me on my pole-lathe. You can view examples in my shop.
We can discuss custom bowls. If you have a design or style in mind please contact me.

Bowl-Turning Course FAQs

Bowl Turning Courses

The bowl-turning taster sessions are being held at Haddenham Arts Centre. I also offer 1-2-1 tuition. These can take place at an agreed venue. Please contact me for more details.
Prices start at £225 for a 6-hour course. This includes turning a bowl from a prepared bowl blank. I also offer more in-depth greenwood courses where you make a mandrel and axe out your bowl blank. Please contact me to arrange your course or if you have any further questions.
My bowl-turning taster sessions are intended as an introduction to bowl-turning on a traditional pole lathe. The course is physically demanding, and some may find it too challenging to complete it on their own. Therefore I offer this opportunity to try a less intensive course.
Yes, it is recommended that you stick at five people for a communal bowl-turning course. Please contact me to make arrangements.
You can see available dates and book a place on my bowl-turning taster session by visiting my events page. At the bottom of the page, you will find a link to Event Brite and the corresponding course date.
I offer bowl turning courses for complete beginners and to those that have some experience in wood working and turning.
We provide you with a pole-lathe, specialist bowl hooks, a mandrel and wooden bowl blank measuring about 6 inches in diametre.