I've been turning now for about six months and have found it to be relaxing and rewarding. I've read many articles and books and have watched hours of video----all have been very helpful. I have also spent many hours on the lathe. I think a mentor would now be a great help as I attempt to hone my skills. I live in east central Indiana----any thoughts or volunteers?
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Mentor needed
- Thread starter Tim Passmore
- Start date
john lucas
AAW Forum Expert
Join a club if you can find one near you. There is a great club that meets in Northern Indianapolis. Probably lots more.
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I recommend you contact one or more of the local chapters in your area. Hands on instruction is by far the most effective way to advance your skills and increase your enjoyment of woodturning. Many clubs offer formal mentoring. Consider taking a formal class at a craft school or a turner's studio.
The AAW web site has a chapters search which produced 8 chapters serving Indiana.
If you use their search you can expand the chapter information and find along to most of the chapters web sites.
Only a small fraction of the AAW member routinely visit the forum. Most of the chapter contacts are quite helpful.
8 Records Found Sort by Name | Group
Central Indiana Chapter-AAW
Zionsville, Indiana United States
Flatland Woodturners
Champaign, Illinois United States
I K I Woodturners
Evansville, Indiana United States
Michiana Wood Turners
Niles, Michigan United States
Northeast Indiana Chiselers and Turners
Fort Wayne, Indiana United States
Ohio Valley Woodturners Guild
Cincinnati, Ohio United States
South Suburban Chiselers/Illiana Woodturners
South Holland, Illinois United States
Southeast Indiana Woodturners
Holton, Indiana United States
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Tim, I can tell you from personal experience that joining a club is one of the best things you can do to improve your turning. I joined Bucks Woodturners (Eastern PA) about a year and a half ago and have seen wonderful presentations with very detailed information, but also participated in their hands on workshops where an experienced turner works with a small group while they each turn the topic project. Last year I turned my first bowl and this year a finial box, learning new techniques with direct mentoring. I've also found that turners tend to be very nice and generous folks. Get in touch with the nearest club and get to the next meeting. You will be glad you did.
Doug
Doug
I found a turning club within 25 miles of my home that I didn't know existed. I'll be attending my first meeting on Wednesday. Thanks for the advice.
Steve Worcester
Admin Emeritus
that is what we are here for