Woodturning is as popular as ever -- a constantly growing segement in the woodworking world and one of the most wide-reaching woodcrafts among artists and hands-on crafters. It’s appeal is based on the short learning curve, the minimal equipment, and the sheer joy of learning to make something out of wood with one’s own hands. But, unlike a lot of crafts that rely on individuality and creative thinking, the initial techniques of woodturning must be mastered. While at first liberating, these same techniques can eventually be confining because in mastering them, one must follow the lead of others. At a certain point, woodturners can feel that mastering the techniques has become the end in itself as they lose sight of their true pursuit: to create one’s own original style. In fact, some woodturners, who believe they aren’t creative enough, will simply continue to master techniques while imitiating the style of others.
Terry Martin, the author of The Creative Woodturner and a woodturning artist, instructor, and photographer for over thirty-years, believes this goes against the fundamental nature of creating and being an artist. There is no “right” or “wrong” and the pursuit of originality should be the goal of every woodturner. Best of all, creativity can be learned and the ability to think and see in one’s own artistic style can be achieved. The Creative Woodturner is not your usual “how-to” woodturning book. It won’t tell you what a chuck is, how to sharpen a scraper, or how to turn a goblet. Instead, this book is a “how-to” for unlocking curiosity, how to break the rules, and for following one’s own artistic path with confidence.
Designed to give readers a wide-persepective on creativity, The Creative Woodturner begins first with insightful commentary, quotes, and examples from the woodturning and art community that will both inspire and inform. In addition, the author shares his Idea Tools: questions to ask during the planning and creative process that are as important to the creation of the woodturning project as any equipment in the shop. Finally, 16 one-of-a-kind projects – from boxes and vessles to bowls and one-of-a-kind scultpures – are featured that will spark the creative mindset of any woodturner.
Each project is documented with instructions and crisp photography highlighting the key steps, techniques, and tasks necessary for completion. In taking the reader through each project, the author pulls back the curtain on his woodturning magic and shares his vision and how the Idea Tools and creative thinking emerges in each project.
An inspiring and enjoyable read not only for woodturners, but for any artist, The Creative Woodturner will anyone to think and see differently so time is spent at the lathe – or whatever creative pursuit it is -- creating the original ideas instead of imitating someone else
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$39.95 $23.97 |
This is the 3rd edition of what is known as the standard book on renovation. There are new sections on tools, kitchens, baths, and energy conservation as well as over 600 new color photos. Popular Science called it the "most popular single volume on home renovation ever". Published at $39.95. Special $31.95.
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$12.95 $7.77 |
This is the second in the Ashby Design Workshop collection of clock cases for the woodworker to make. Five designs, esp. for the woodturner, complete with measured plans and step by step drawings and full instructions to ensure successful results. The finished projects make fine gifts for the home or for sale. REGULAR $7.95 OUR PRICE $3.95. You save 50%.
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$9.95 $5.97 |
This follow-up to The Boy Mechanic features more than 200 unique toys and games that anyone with a basic tool kit will want to make. Charmingly designed to capture that old-fashioned flavor, every imaginative project remains as engaging today as ever, with its appeal fully intact. Theres amusement for little kids, including a toy donkey that nods and wags its tail; a childs playhouse and a miniature windmill; magic tricks, such as an X-Ray pack of cards and mystery coin box; items for the great outdoors, which range from a homebuilt canoe to a diving tower; plus gizmos and gadgets, scien-terrific motors and engines, and entertaining objects for an older child to create and play with.
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$25.95 $15.57 |
Professional carpenter Larry Haun shows all the techniques needed to frame a basic house, from laying the sills, to framing the roof. Fully illustrated with information on sitebuilt tools, permits, stairbuilding, tools, materials, task organization for stream-lining the job and more. See companion videos in section 22.
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$19.95 $11.97 |
The specialized art of carving gunstocks is very popular with both hunters and crafters. Many hunters commission artists to carve an image replicating a successful hunt on their gun or rifle which is then displayed to commemorate their catch. This type of woodcarving can be very lucrative and now carvers of all levels can learn this process from start to finish with this new book by Bill Janney.
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$24.95 $14.97 |
This definitive homeowners guide to solar energy has arrived at just the right time. With the cost of heating oil and electricity fluctuating wildly, consumers are clamoring for information on alternative energy. This source book covers all the relevant technologies, including solar space and water heating, as well as photovoltaic electricity. Its practical (with cost calculators, tips on taking advantage of rebates and tax incentives, and advice on finding specialized contractors). And its authoritative, written by a recognized expert in the field, Everett Barber, Jr., who has 30 years experience installing all kinds of solar energy systems. Co-author Joseph Provey has been writing about the topic for almost as long. Together, they cover every facet of planning, installing, operating, and maintaining a residential solar energy system.