"One Good Turn Deserves Another" - originally built in 1986 for a woodturning exhibit in Seattle. This project began as the result of inspiration from the handling of a 17th century treadle lathe. I was fascinated by the unusual moving shapes and mechanical functions. As I began the brainstorming process to design the lathe, my sense of humor crept in and soon animal forms appeared. - serpent-like shapes for tightening handles, a turtle head for the shell-shaped tailstock, and a smiling gentleman who, put on the headstock, will lock the spindle. The lathe has consumed over 400 hours of time, designing and redesigning and complex joinery. Ash, walnut, cocobolo, rosewood. Some padauk, koa, cherry, etc. on handles of tools. Comes with all necessary tools housed in the box on the right side. This is a working treadle lathe.

Wood is a living, breathing vibrant material. Each piece has its own unique personality and mood. In my work, I strive to allow the wood to show its life, its personality, its beauty, and its humor through its expressive visual and tactile textures, its grain patterns, spaces, and lines.

Whenever possible, I utilize wood for all hinges, pins, handles, and hasps. Often other materials used for these purposes distract from the wood’s warmth and character. When selecting the wood for a particular object, I look for its character and pattern and color. Fortunately, some pieces seem to practically scream out their obvious purpose...how and for what they must be used. A successful woodworker must reach for that level of sensitivity to the material.

I have traveled extensively in the western United States and South America, studying and working with woodworkers in many locales. During two terms in the Peace Corps (Jamaica and Ecuador), I studied with woodcarvers and sculptors, as well as working as a technical advisor in both countries.

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