I'm still here

Yes, I'm still here and I'm still turning. I've just been busy with other things and haven't been able to spend as much time in the shop as I wouli like. However, this last week I have been able to spend a few minutes out there. I have been working on an idea that a friend gave me to solve a problem.

When I go to arts and craft shows to sell my things, I have to explain to people that I actually turn them. Most people don't belive it and think I buy this stuff wholesale somewhere. (Although where you could buy a peppermill with an antique bath faucet top, I'm not sure.) It is also hard for me to do demos since I don't have a small portable lathe. The one in my shop is too big to transport and runs on 220v. Plus, it gets a little messy. How to solve this.

A friend pointed out that I should video myself turning, edit it on the computer, and put it on a computer or tv screen where I am selling, so they could see how the product is made. DUHHH. Welcome to 2011, Dale. So that is what I have been working on. Unfortunately, 2 of the bowls I used for the video, I got a little aggressive on, and went throught the sides and bottom. Oh well, show biz.

I was also able to spend Sunday at Woodcraft where David Marks was doing a demo on turning and gilding with metal leaf and chemical patinas. You may have seen David on the DIY network where he used to have a TV show called Woodworks. It was a great demo, but I wish it could have been hands on. Tuesday is the hands on day, but I will have to miss that one. David was a really nice guy and a good presenter. Unfortunately, it ran a little long and I had to leave before then end. Every time I see a demo, I come away with something, so it was well worth the trip.

Off to try some of my ideas.