Here is my Woodturning!
by John F. Hayes Jr.
Mokena, IL
Note: click any picture to see a larger version.
I've been working with wood for the past 25 years but it's primarily been focused in creating personalized
rocking horses for young people. I have always been intrigued by artistic bowl turning, but it has
only been in the past 1-1/2 years that I have become serious about it. I have made art a life long
hobby, sculpting with various mediums; stone lime, sand and soapstones. I throw clay as well,
but my real passion has been working with woods of all types. I am lucky enough to be able to
work in my hobby full-time. I am not paid to do this but I am constantly trying to achieve new
techniques I've researched on "YouTube" as well as other web related informational sites
available in order to better my skill sets.
I am very fortunate to have access to "burls" of different types and sizes, from Wild
Cherry (aka Choke Cherry) to Oak (red and white), Curly Maple, and Ash, as well as Walnut.
My goal is to eventually become experienced enough to have my own showing at a local gallery and/or web site in the attempt
to sell some of my more unique pieces. Bowls used for cookware are not what motivate me;
however creating something from a gnarly piece, which shows the intricate grains, swirls, and
complicated inclusions, fascinates my artistic flare. I look at every piece of wood as an
opportunity to create something exciting, even the smallest piece holds so much personality
and potential. I am grateful to be part of creating something unique and beautiful, in particular
since it originates from nature.
You can email John at
jfhayesjr@gmail.com.
Submit your own woodturnings or woodturning shop to this column! Simply
SEND US PHOTOS
of your woodturning
projects or shop along with captions and a brief history and description of your woodturning. (Email photos
at 800x600 resolution.) Receive a $50 store credit if we show your turning in a future issue!
