Hollow Vessel Turning with John Jordan June 1-5, 2021 (Tues-Sat)

This class will cover the techniques required to turn elegant and refined vessels using green wood as a material with a major focus on the characteristics and properties of this wonderful material. Learn about the difference in orientation of the wood, end grain vs. side grain, balancing the grain patterns and colors for maximum effect. Moisture related issues such as warping and cracking will be covered at length, and you will learn John’s simple method of dealing with these concerns. Smooth, fluid, and efficient tool use, sharpening, and shear scraping will be covered with a strong emphasis on the deep fluted, side grind gouge. The class will start with some basic bowl turning and will move on to safe, simple and effective hollow turning for those who are interested. Methods of carving and texturing to enhance the surface of the turned vessel will be explored, using a variety of hand and power tools, and on the lathe textures will be demonstrated as well. John requests that students should have good basic sharpening and gouge skills.