Sunday, August 06, 2017

Techniques That Make Handmade Turned Wooden Vessels Unique

By David Morris


Hand turning wood into bowls, cups, platters, and various other containers is not a new practice. Craftsmen have been doing it for thousands of years. Lathes have been used long before Christ was born to make sturdy and durable holders for drinks and food. Although the methods, equipment, and techniques have evolved through the years, the basic principles endure. Even those who are intimidated by paintings and sculptures, are usually drawn to these seemingly simple handmade turned wooden vessels.

The best of the work does not look at all artificial. Talents artisans know the wood is the star. They allow the wood's natural characteristics to dictate the direction and design of the work. Grain has a natural flow, and the craftsmen are careful to take advantage of it in order to create unique and special pieces every time. Most species of timber can be utilized in design. Scarce, endangered, or diseased wood is never used by credible craftsmen.

A lot of artists are attracted to spalted timber when looking for specimens to work with. They especially like the lines and colors created when the fungus attacks the tree. The fungus does not weaken or otherwise compromise the final product. The fungus dies once the level of moisture within the wood is reduced to that found in indoor environments.

Admirers are often curious about the pieces they see that have a particularly rich brown patina. Wood with this characteristic is known as brown oak. It is created when the beefsteak fungus attaches to the outside of timber. The waste produced from sapwood feeding permeates the tree and mixes with the timber's natural tannin. A rich, deep brown results.

Burr pieces are created by slicing open lumps on the outside of trees that result from abnormal growths within a tree. Once the burrs are open, they reveal vivid patterned whorls and swirls in a variety of colors. The burrs can make production challenging, but most agree the effort is worth it. Some artists remove the bark from the edges, while others prefer to leave it on.

A lot of people who love to collect these pieces believe the natural wood creations are the most authentic. Others love the effect of color added to the art. Wood artists who work with color have their own techniques. They may use acrylics, gesso, or some other medium. Many airbrush their pieces to give them a light and subtle look.

Some people collect these pieces for their aesthetic purposes and would never dream of putting salad in a bowl or wine in a cup. Others argue that these items were originally intended for everyday use, and owners should continue in that tradition. The fact is that there is no right or wrong way to use a piece as long as its integrity is respected.

There is something special and compelling about wood creations. It may be that we associate them with nature, unlike other forms of art. These pieces can also feel less removed from daily life. That may be why they are often handed down from generation to generation.




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