Woodturning Guides & Articles
Over the years I’ve written a growing collection of articles covering tools, wood, techniques, safety, workshop setup, and the realities of running a woodturning business in Ireland.
As the blog expands, finding specific topics can become less straightforward. This page gathers everything into one structured, easy-to-navigate guide.
These articles reflect my experience and approach at the lathe, but they are not a substitute for hands-on instruction. Reading builds understanding, proper practice and tuition build skill.
If you’re looking for a general overview of my woodturning tuition and experience offerings, the Woodturning Hub page is a good starting point. From there you can explore tuition options, finished pieces, and other areas of the site.
Use the sections below to explore the articles in more depth.
🪵 Basics & Techniques
This is where the craft itself begins.
These articles focus on approach, tool control, sharpening, and the thinking behind good turning. I don’t give away every nuance here — that belongs in the workshop — but these posts will help you understand what really matters at the lathe.
Featured articles:
All Articles in Basics & Techniques
🔧 Tools & Equipment
It’s easy to believe better tools make better work. Experience says otherwise.
These posts cover what tools are genuinely worth investing in, how to avoid expensive mistakes, and how to set up a workshop that works for you — not against you.
Start Here
All Articles in Tools & Equipment
🌳 Timber, Trees & Wood Sourcing
Wood behaves the way it behaves whether we like it or not.
Understanding moisture, movement, drying, and sourcing is one of the biggest differences between frustration and success. If you’ve ever had bowls crack or warp unexpectedly, this section is essential reading.
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All Articles in Timber & Sourcing
🛡 Woodturning Safety & Dust Control
Woodturning is deeply rewarding, but it demands respect.
Dust, sharp tools, spinning timber, and complacency can all cause serious problems. These articles cover the hazards many beginners underestimate.
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All Articles in Safety
🎓 Tuition & Learning
Teaching has sharpened my own skills as much as turning has.
These articles explore learning curves, common misconceptions, and what students often misunderstand before stepping into the workshop.
If you’re considering a lesson, this section will help you decide whether woodturning tuition is right for you.
Start Here
All Articles in Tuition & Learning
🏗 Workshop Setup & Business
Running a workshop isn’t just about making shavings.
It’s about organisation, systems, mindset, pricing, and sometimes hard lessons. These posts look at the practical and business side of being a working woodturner.
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All Articles in Workshop & Business
🎁 Gifts & Handmade Pieces
Woodturning isn’t just technique — it’s about creating something useful and lasting.
These posts explore finished pieces, gift ideas, and how to choose what’s right for your table or workshop.
Start Here
🌱 Environmental & Sustainability
Woodturning begins long before the lathe spins. Responsible sourcing and long-term thinking matter.
Articles
Where to Start?
If you’re new, begin with:
Those three will give you a solid foundation before you go any further.
If you’re already turning and want to refine your thinking, head to the Basics & Techniques section.
If you’re considering tuition, read through the Tuition & Learning articles first — then explore the hands-on lesson options available here in Tralee.
Woodturning is addictive.
The more you understand the material, the tools, and your own habits at the lathe, the more rewarding it becomes.
This page will grow as I publish new guides and articles. If you want a structured overview of everything I write, this is the place to return to.
More Woodcraft Pages to Explore
● Household & Homeware – Useful Irish hardwood homeware pieces made for everyday living.
● Irish Wood Pens – Premium Irish wood pens, individually hand-turned for smooth everyday writing.
● Gifts for Kids – Simple, safe and fun wooden gifts made for little hands.
● Ring Holders – Handcrafted Irish wood ring holders, elegant stands for everyday jewellery.
● Tools & Finishes Hub – Equipment, consumables, finishes, practical know-how.
● Woodcraft Hub – Explore my range of handcrafted Irish hardwood gifts, homeware and everyday wooden pieces.
● Woodturning Hub – Articles, guides and insights on woodturning, tools, techniques and learning.
● Crafter’s Haven – Explore craft supplies I also stock, including ribbon, bags, bows and embellishments.
Thank you for visiting, and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like any guidance in choosing the perfect gift or piece for your home!