It took me a few years to find “balance” with my craft:

• Years 1-2  - fun learning, and making ugly heavy CRAP.  Still thankful for those that told me it was “beautiful” anyways.
• Years 3-5 – growth, 8-10 shows/year on top of working a 2400hr/year IT  career in consulting, building a body of work, 8000lbs of wood, wrecking my health, sanity, relationship, friendships and finances
• Years 5-6 – economic downturn, health issues, yet strangely my first two profitable years.  Considered selling it all as I started to dig my way out.  I wanted to quit.
• Now – years 7-8  - Focusing on quality, making what I want,  Shows “if” I have time/work, financial stability and making happiness/health a higher priority than producing work.  Satisfied with the work I am making on MY terms.

Point of story: Learn from my 8 years of failures/successes as this article below describes what it took me so long to figure out. I’ve heard MANY other creatives/makers discuss similar experiences. Maybe it’s a right of passage for some of us? 

Crazy Talk: The Do-What-You-Love Guide

So, after a little break, I’m finally back in the studio making pieces to photograph for juried art shows. In my spare time, I’ll be inviting friends over to turn pens. It’s my passion and I love sharing it with others.

You’ll be using tools, wood and parts to make the wooden pen depicted in the photo. It’s a small, easy, safe beginners project that will take a little under two hours. Map/directions to the studio from are available from http://www.junctionviewstudios.com My studio (120/121) is all the way in back behind the orange door. The dogs, otherwise known as the “shop supervisors”, will be there to greet you.

I’ll have all the safety gear/supplies you’ll need. We’ll start off with an overview of the process and talk about safety. I ask that everyone working in the studio sign a release of responsibility, know that in advance. Also, please avoid wearing long sleeve shirts, loose baggy clothing, or open toed shoes.

It’s by invitation only and free of charge.  A gift from me and a “thank you” to you for being my friend.

SO excited for the “Viewfinder” show at Junctionview studios this weekend. This is a gangbuster, packed holiday/gift show encompassing Junctionview artists and the Crafty Cotillion.  Hours are fro[m 11a-7p Satuday and Sunday, admission is free.  There will be free grab bags for the first 75 customers purchasing work each day.

I’ll be doing woodturning demo’s throughout each day.  While I won’t have a lot of work to show/sell, I’d encourage you to drop by, say hello, learn more about me, and my work.

Hope to see you there!

A lot of you have been asking (and asking, and asking – and thanks for that!) about my website and when it would have some content you could explore. It’s been a long time coming, but the answer is: now!

What you’ll find today:

• Various and random posts and pictures of a few things I’ve worked on over the past few years

What’s coming soon:

• More random posts about my time in the studio
• Regular Out of Round articles about woodturning for students and professionals alike
• For The Love of Wood articles featuring content about how to care for your handcrafted wood products, what goes into their creation, and highlights of other fantastic woodturners
• A featured project section spotlighting important pieces from start to finish
• A schedule filled with classes, shows and events where you can find me or my work live and in person

So come in, look around, and most importantly interact! I’m excited to share my expertise and passion for woodturning with you, whether your interest is in purchasing or perfecting your own craft.

Have an interest in trying your hand at woodturning? Come to Woodcraft at Bethel/Kenny and turn a wood pen for the troops for free today. I’ll be there from 2-4 teaching.

Photo Credit: LightSwitch Creative

Pushed hard today, a little wrung out. Got lots done, but, ran myself to zero in a few areas. My “exceptional” for the day will be grooming dogs, cleaning house, and a little studio time on the way to Skully’s @ 11 for 80′s night.

I challenge you to be EXCEPTIONAL today. Take one little thing and do it better than you ever done it – for the joy of doing it.

Dad, I really have to go!

Makin’ shavings. I’ve just totally destroyed a small bottle stopper, so, I’m just making shavings becuase I’m too lazy to stop the lathe and take it off…

Today is a special day, its the day I retired my first bowl gouge gifted to me by my father some 7-8 years ago. Its seen my hands for hundreds of hours, and has been held by loved ones and friends with whom I’ve shared my craft.

Behind it lies its younger sibling who’s path is only beginning. Who knows what I’ll make with it. The old one will be framed and serve as a reminder of the road behind me, so that I may better travel the road ahead of me.