Demonstrations
I have spent a lifetime researching traditional woodworking skills both in England and overseas, especially in Eastern Europe. This research has been translated into practical skills which I demonstrate at exhibitions, shows and seminars. Demonstrations are informal and friendly and are illustrated by antique tools, treen and photographs.If you are looking for a uniquely entertaining demonstration / exhibition, delivered with humour and traditional references, for clubs, seminars and exhibitions: please contact me.
Creative Woodturning
I regularly demonstrate my exceptional woodturning skills at clubs and seminars, both nationally and internationally. My speciality is turning green wood, especially translucent thin-walled vessels, some of which are fretted, pierced and coloured into landscape designs.
Demonstrating my art to woodturning clubs and international exhibitions has taken me to Europe and the USA (my first US demo was in 1980) on many occasions as well as demonstrating to woodturning clubs all over the UK.
The content of my various demonstrations and masterclasses is wide ranging but can include any of the following elements, delivered in an informal, fast moving, unique and humorous manner.
- Turning wet wood from the round;
- Texturing, colour and decoration;
- Pyrography and piecing;
- Historical aspects of woodturning including the handling of antique pieces and slide presentations.
Pole Lathe Turning
I am also a proficient pole lathe turner, having learnt the art some 35 years ago whilst researching the traditional work of the Buckinghamshire chair bodgers
.
Spoon Making
Using my large collection of spoons from around the world as a backdrop, I will demonstrate the making of traditional domestic spoons from green wood, and also my beautifully fretted and carved lovespoons or commemorative spoons.
Gypsy Crafts
A display of gypsy artefacts, both British and European, are complemented by demonstrations of the craft of making wooden gipsy flowers.
Marquetry
I trained as a marquetry cutter at the age of 15 and still retain the old skills of this specialised art.
