John OBrien

[John OBrien]

Hello Everybody. Thought I would introduce myself. My name is John O'Brien. I have been working wood for 40 years now but this is the first time I got serious about turning. I have had a lathe for many years, cause I thought I needed one (LOL) but never really used it. So in June, I took a class at Marc Adams taught by Alan Lacer. That got me started. Since then, I have read books, and watched dozens of videos and DVD's on the subject. I am getting the hang of it but have a ways to go. So far, I have made a 3 legged stool (in class), several screwdrivers and awls, a few tool handles, and a couple lidded boxes. I found these boxes a challenge and a lot of fun. My biggest obstacle right bow is getting a good finish cut on the inside of these boxes.

 

[Bill Boehme]

Welcome aboard, John. Woodturning is definitely an addictive hobby ... a whole different world of woodworking from "flat" woodworking. There's always something new to learn about woodturning. Alan is a great teacher.

Seeing your avatar reminded me that I made an awl from a kit that I got from Alan about a week ago. The knob on mine was plain Jane not fancy like yours.

 

[john lucas]

Alan is good. For new turners I recommend a negative rake scraper for the inside. Personally I use Hunter carbide tools but they do have a learning curve for inside of boxes.

 

[hockenbery]

Welcome! Alan is a terrific demonstrator and teacher.
So you are off to a good start.
Two AAW benifits I recommend to new turners are -
woodturning Fundamentals and
AAW local chapters.

If you have not visited a local chapter of AAW I urge you to check out
Finger lakes club and Genosee Valley club in the Rochester area which I think is close to you