Just what does a woodturner do? Basically, turn wood into objects that are artistic or useful - often both.

Wood can be bought in a physical or online store, but the best way to acquire it is by harvesting a tree. Woodturners normally don't fell trees; we get ourselves invited along when the professionals are at work. (Click on any picture for a larger image. You may have to allow pop-ups to see them.)

This 65' black walnut tree was dying and had to be removed.

While the aborists take a break, we discuss who gets what!

This one of seven truck loads that day. The piece at the back weighs 650lbs!

This is a typical log that might be brought home. It's Black Walnut, but not from the same tree.

After some chain saw work, we cut it into a round blank on the bandsaw.

The blank is then roughed out and put aside to dry for several weeks or months.

The finished bowl. Approximately 9" x 3", finished with clear wax.