If you are interested in following a course of instruction - for a day, a few days or a week - you are invited to get in touch with me (phone and email details are on my contact page), explaining the level of expertise you are at currently and what your goals are. I offer one-on-one training, but will consider two turners who are at a similar level to each other.
The cost for instruction is $300 Cdn per day plus tax which includes lunch and tea and / or coffee. My studio workshop is situated in the beautiful landscaped grounds of a century old farmhouse in the Annapolis valley. We are about one hour's drive from Halifax's international airport. Excellent accommodation is within walking distance in the village of Canning. Nova Scotia is a wonderful vacation destination and there are many attractions within easy driving distance. For further information on this, refer to Nova Scotia tourist information site.
The course material will vary depending on the level of expertise of the student. If you are a beginner a course of at least three days duration is recommended, which will cover the following topics:
- Basic turning techniques - spindle and faceplate
- Setting up a turning shop for hobby or business - planning for the future and spending wisely
- Properties and characteristics of different woods in relation to their use in turning
- Care and sharpening of tools
- Health and safety in the workshop
Courses for more experienced woodturners interested in perfecting their techniques can be geared to the needs of the individual turner, but might include:
- Fine box turning using exotic woods
- Incorporation of carving and texturing into designs
- Finishing techniques
- Elements of design
If you have any questions or would like to discuss elements of the tuition, please contact me by telephone at 902-582-3795 and I will be happy to chat with you about it.