Steve Thompson introduction

[Steve Thompson]

Hi All,

First and foremost, I would like to thank the administrators of this group for allowing me to join and participate.

I'm relatively new to woodturning. My wife and I took our first class in May of this year. I was hoping she'd enjoy it, and boy, howdy, did she! Since then, we've taken 3 other woodturning classes. I love that we both share a passion for woodturning. For both of us, it is soothing and relaxing.

To date, we've purchased our own midi-lathe, grinder, and sharpening system components for the grinder, as well as a decent arsenal of tools (more than I care to admit, although I'm certain just about everyone here has done the same). Early on in my woodturning evolution, I built a tool rack that can hold 36 tools (see picture - taken after it was made and attached to our shop wall). At the time, I thought there was no way I would ever fill it up. Ha, ha!! I've since filled it up, and I'm on overflow (the count of tools is somewhere around 40, as of this posting).

So far, we've made six bowls, two hollow forms, and several pens.

Both of us are very much in the beginner category. We are learning a great deal, and we are very eager to improve our skills. Making bowls is what we both enjoy the most.

We live in a rural area north of Columbus, OH (go Buckeyes!)

Cheers,
Steve

 

[Mark Hepburn]

Hi Steve and welcome to the forum! This is a great place for beginners to learn, and I'd also suggest considering joining both the AAW and a chapter (there's at least one in Columbus, link below). Don't hesitate to reach out with questions.

Mark

Central Ohio Woodturners - Home

 

[Tom Gall]

As my tee-shirt proudly states ......"I'm only one tool away from greatness" (YOU too) !!!

 

[John K Jordan]

Steve,

Sounds wonderful, like you two might be having some fun. (Sounds like you might need to start shopping for a second lathe!)

I've been turning about 25 years and still love it.
My Lovely wife of 55 years really likes the things I make for the kitchen and house but I don't think she's even once stepped foot in the shop! She knows where it is since a few years back she walked down the hill, I think to see the llamas.

Have you joined a local turning club? That can be a tremendous resource: demos, discussions, mentoring.

Most clubs get outside pros to come on occasion and have a demonstration every month by turners from the club or from other clubs. That provides a HUGE variety of ideas for things to try at home!

I'm preparing now to do a demo in Sept on these "handbell" ornaments, should be enough time for people to make them if they want for a Christmas charity for the local children's hospital:



JKJ

 

[Gerald Lawrence]

Welcome to the forum. Don't let yourself be intimidated by the overload of pics JKJ just gave you. I will echo above sentiments and add we like pics.