Thank you AAW!
When I began woodworking as a hobby in the late 80’s there were few examples of turned wood featured in the industry magazines. About the only turner I recall be exposed to was Bob Stocksdale and Rude Osolnick. While my interests continued in case construction and practical furniture, a vacation to Belize and the purchase of a locally made cocobolo bowl ignited my desire to turn.
Sadly it took another 15 years before I felt I could justify the purchase of a lathe. But now with a taste, in retrospect I should have purchased a lathe before all the other equipment.
Just a few years before I first considered buying a wood lathe the AAW was formed to promote education and organization for those interested in wood turning. In addition, in 1986 the American Woodturner magazine was launched.
In just a couple of decades, AAW has helped take a nearly forgotten craft and revive it. It has been a pleasure to watch as turning moved from the home hobbyist spinning a few bowls, goblets or tops into a new artform. With the launch of AAW and the hard work of many fellow enthusiast, wood turning continues to grow in popularity for turners and collectors alike.
In the last few years, AAW has brought me a wealth of knowledge about lathes, tools, wood and turning techniques. But most of all, I have been inspired.
If you have a moment, you should take a look at the AAW site and their gallery to see the amazing diversity that exists in this world. Click on the AAW Logo below.
