The Art of Wood Turning: From Raw Log to Beautiful Bowl

There's something magical about wood turning — taking a rough chunk of wood and shaping it into a perfectly symmetrical bowl on the lathe. I've been turning for over two decades.

What Is Wood Turning?

Wood turning shapes wood on a lathe — a machine that spins the workpiece while you cut and shape it. A quality lathe like Midi Lathe for Beginners handles everything from pens to large bowls.

Selecting the Wood

Spalted wood has striking fungal patterns. Burl wood has incredibly complex swirling grain. Green wood is easier to turn but needs careful drying. I source blanks locally in the Pacific Northwest — big leaf maple, madrone, Pacific yew, Oregon walnut.

The Turning Process

Preparing the blank on the bandsaw, roughing the outside with a Bowl Gouge Set, hollowing the interior with even wall thickness, sanding through progressive grits while spinning, and finishing with food-safe mineral oil and beeswax. A Full Face Shield for Woodturning is essential safety gear.

Beyond Bowls

I also turn shave brushes in spalted maple, beer tap handles with Celtic knot carvings, custom tool handles, and holiday ornaments. Every piece tells a story.

Shop hand-turned items →

Custom piece? Email scottswoodcraftsllc@gmail.com.