Woodworking
Intro to Woodturning
Get started in woodturning by learning safety, tool control, and how to create basic shapes for spindle and bowl turning.
Member$339.00 (any noted materials fee included) |
Guest$418.00 (any noted materials fee included) |
Tuition Assistance and Other Policies
Meeting Times
- Sat, 6/7/2025 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Sun, 6/8/2025 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Sat, 6/14/2025 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Sat, 6/7/2025 - Sat, 6/14/2025
About
Learn the basics of spindle turning and complete a small project in this beginner-level class, which is essentially a semi-private lesson with one instructor or teaching assistant for each two students.
- Session 1: Learn woodturning safety, bevel contact, and gouge techniques with a focus on good body mechanics, all of which are important to building a foundation for your turning skills. Use the spindle roughing gouge during most of the first session, and then get an introduction to the "fingernail" spindle gouge.
- Session 2: Review the earlier lesson then focus on the spindle gouge and parting tool as you learn new mechanics for turning beads and coves. Learn how scroll chucks and tenons work.
- Session 3: Increase the precision and enjoyment of your turning technique by making a small project such as a tea-light holder, honey dipper, spinning top, or goblet with your own design elements. Use a negative-rake scraper to smooth the surface, while using a scroll chuck, a Jacobs chuck, and a Forstner bit where needed. If time permits, you'll learn the basics of sanding and how to use the three-wheel buffing system.
Details
- If you need more time to complete the project, instructors will help you in Open Studio.
- Completing this class clears you to use the wood lathes for spindle turning during Open Studio. While you'll also be eligible to take a bowl-turning class, you're expected to spend time turning in Open Studio a few times before you enroll in a bowl class.
Materials
A $20 materials fee, included in the cost of the class, covers all the materials you'll need.
Prerequisites
You must have completed Orientation to the Woodshop.
Class Policies
- Ages 14 and up are welcome.
- Wear safety glasses and closed-toe shoes, tie back long hair, and avoid loose-fitting clothing and jewelry. We recommend bringing your own safety glasses.
BARN Policies
- View BARN's Cancellation and Refund Policy.
- Tuition Assistance is available. Fill out the application before registering.
- BARN is committed to accessibility. We try to make accommodations when requested; the earlier you contact us, the more likely we can help. Please email accessibility@bainbridgebarn.org to find out more or request an accommodation.
- Sensory Statement: Makerspaces like BARN can be noisy and cluttered, smell strongly, and have bright or flickering lights. BARN is not an allergen-free facility. If you have concerns, please email info@bainbridgebarn.org.
Instructors or Guides
Jamie Straw
Jamie has been turning wood for many years, working on both spindle and bowl projects, and has taught woodturning at BARN since July 2017. She also serves as coordinator of BARN’s woodturning program. She is a past vice president for education and training for the local chapter of the American Association of Woodturners. Her focus is on helping students build skills progressively as they design and create their woodturning projects.
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