Woodturning at Seventeen

by Ben Carpenter

   I have always been interested in wood.  It was, however, just three years ago that this interest brought me to the wonderful field of woodturning. One might think woodturning an odd avenue to pursue for a seventeen year old, and they would be right.  Although there may be some, I don't know any other turners my age.

Woodturning is not "cool."  It doesn't make me wealthy.  It doesn't improve my grades.  So why, then, do I spend a large part of my time at the lathe sending strips of wood into my face?  What are my motivations?    First, it appeals to the teenage boy in me.  What can be better than big, shiny machines twirling chunks of wood at high R.P.M.'s?  Plenty of risk helps add to the thrill-the only thing between you and that thirty pound blank is a flimsy plastic face shield and a razor sharp A-11 Glazer deep fluted bowl gouge.  So woodturning is a blast.  But there's more.   

Woodturning, like any other creative art form, is fulfilling.  After a day when you finish a salad bowl and rough out two others, you can sleep knowing you've accomplished something.  And you don't have to be a professional to feel this way.  As a beginner, as long as I never shortchange myself, each new piece is my best, so turning always holds something new.    I also enjoy woodturning because the shop in which I work is a pleasant place to spend my time. 

Being in the shop does not necessarily mean you must be uncomfortable.  Most important, breathe clean air!  I tend to be of the invincible mind-set, as are most teenagers.  I think "a little dust won't hurt me."  I can tell you, it does add up after awhile, so wear a simple dust mask or set up a collection system.  Second, keep warm-no one wants to work in a cold shop.  Space heaters are cheap and work wonders on small sheds or garages.  Finally, install a serious sound system!  Why not work to your favorite tunes?   

I can even make a little money woodturning, although not enough to live on. Tools can be expensive, so I recommend that before springing for a new lathe, a young turner should start by using school shop equipment.  I was lucky enough to find Jim Christiansen  a generous and experienced woodturner whose shop I could use.  We now turn together along with Will Simpson as almost a team.  We critique each other's work, share expenses and motivate each other to ever finer work.   

But be warned, woodturning is addictive.  Once you start you may never want to stop.  So go ahead and take the plunge, and remember, you're never too young to start.