Hand turning wood into bowls, cups, platters, and various other containers is not a new practice. Craftsmen have been doing it for thousands of years. Lathes have been used long before Christ was born to make sturdy and durable holders for drinks and food. Although the methods, equipment, and techniques have evolved through the years, the basic principles endure. Even those who are intimidated by paintings and sculptures, are usually drawn to these seemingly simple handmade turned wooden vessels.
The artists who work with wood use the grain's natural flow to guide their work. Whether the pieces are made to be decorative, functional, or both, each piece the artisan creates is unique from every other. Bowls and cups intended for practical use may have special requirements for cleaning and maintaining. Although many craftsmen have preferences when it comes to wood, most timber is suitable for design.
A lot of artists are attracted to spalted timber when looking for specimens to work with. They especially like the lines and colors created when the fungus attacks the tree. The fungus does not weaken or otherwise compromise the final product. The fungus dies once the level of moisture within the wood is reduced to that found in indoor environments.
Another type of fungus, called beefsteak, can produce an unusually rich brown. The fungus attaches to the outside of an oak tree and feeds on sapwood. The waste seeps into the tree and mixes with tannin, a natural organic substance. A unique brown coloration is the result.
Another wood characteristic that is commonly seen is created by burrs. These are abnormal growths inside trees that create odd looking lumps on the exterior. If the burrs are cut open, amazing swirl and whorl patterns are found. They may have unique coloring as well. Wood with burrs can be difficult to work with, but the results are usually worth the effort. The edges of pieces can have the bark on or off. Each method creates a completely different effect.
Many consider work with a natural finish to be the most valuable and authentic, while others love to collect painted wooden pieces. Talented artists use acrylic and gesso to create all kinds of colors and subtle designs. Some like to airbrush pieces to give them just a hint of color.
Some people collect these pieces for their aesthetic purposes and would never dream of putting salad in a bowl or wine in a cup. Others argue that these items were originally intended for everyday use, and owners should continue in that tradition. The fact is that there is no right or wrong way to use a piece as long as its integrity is respected.
Their closeness to nature may be one of the most appealing aspects of these pieces for collectors. Unlike sculpture, oil and watercolor paintings, or metal design, handcrafted wooden artworks seem accessible to those who might be otherwise be intimidated by art. They are a perfect blend of nature's beauty and man's creativity.
The artists who work with wood use the grain's natural flow to guide their work. Whether the pieces are made to be decorative, functional, or both, each piece the artisan creates is unique from every other. Bowls and cups intended for practical use may have special requirements for cleaning and maintaining. Although many craftsmen have preferences when it comes to wood, most timber is suitable for design.
A lot of artists are attracted to spalted timber when looking for specimens to work with. They especially like the lines and colors created when the fungus attacks the tree. The fungus does not weaken or otherwise compromise the final product. The fungus dies once the level of moisture within the wood is reduced to that found in indoor environments.
Another type of fungus, called beefsteak, can produce an unusually rich brown. The fungus attaches to the outside of an oak tree and feeds on sapwood. The waste seeps into the tree and mixes with tannin, a natural organic substance. A unique brown coloration is the result.
Another wood characteristic that is commonly seen is created by burrs. These are abnormal growths inside trees that create odd looking lumps on the exterior. If the burrs are cut open, amazing swirl and whorl patterns are found. They may have unique coloring as well. Wood with burrs can be difficult to work with, but the results are usually worth the effort. The edges of pieces can have the bark on or off. Each method creates a completely different effect.
Many consider work with a natural finish to be the most valuable and authentic, while others love to collect painted wooden pieces. Talented artists use acrylic and gesso to create all kinds of colors and subtle designs. Some like to airbrush pieces to give them just a hint of color.
Some people collect these pieces for their aesthetic purposes and would never dream of putting salad in a bowl or wine in a cup. Others argue that these items were originally intended for everyday use, and owners should continue in that tradition. The fact is that there is no right or wrong way to use a piece as long as its integrity is respected.
Their closeness to nature may be one of the most appealing aspects of these pieces for collectors. Unlike sculpture, oil and watercolor paintings, or metal design, handcrafted wooden artworks seem accessible to those who might be otherwise be intimidated by art. They are a perfect blend of nature's beauty and man's creativity.
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