Welcome

West Michigan Woodturners is an association of woodturners of all skill levels from beginners to advanced turners. The club is focused on education and advancing the art and science of turning all forms on lathes. We periodically offer an introductory class for beginning turners. At the monthly meetings demonstrations by either club members or invited speakers allow for turners of all levels to advance their skills. Please browse our site to see what we are doing and contact us if you have any questions.

February 14th 2026 Meeting

The meeting starts at 9:30AM sharp, arrival time starts at 8:30 AM in person and 9:00AM via Zoom. We will meet in the Community Room of the Big Rock Community Church, 3140 N. 3rd St., Kalamazoo (Oshtemo) MI 49009.
As usual there will be lots of coffee, some sweet treats and many of your friends to chat with.

Remember, your donations for the Raffle table are much appreciated! They also are a source of supplies and turning wood for many of our members. Please take the time and effort to keep your donations coming. A BIG THANK YOU.

Also, bring your latest turnings to share with the members in “Show and Tell” segment of the club

Demonstration:

At the February 14th meeting, club member John Petro will demonstrate how power carving can be used to embellish woodturning by starting with a near finished turned form: often a bowl, vase, or platter. A clean, symmetrical surface created on the lathe becomes a canvas for adding texture, movement, and visual interest.

He’ll introduce power-carving tools, such as small dental micro motors, rotary tools, or flexible shaft tools, along with different burrs, carving wheels, and abrasive attachments. Before carving, emphasize safety, including secure work holding, body positioning, and appropriate protective gear.

He’ll show how light, controlled passes create flowing patterns, facets, or organic textures that either follow the form of the turning or intentionally contrast with it. He’ll show how changes in pressure, tool angle, and bit selection affect depth and character. He’ll discuss design choices like balancing carved and smooth areas, preserving wall thickness, and using texture to guide the viewer’s eye or enhancing the grain.

He’ll then finish the demonstration by discussing how sanding, burning, or wire brushing can help soften edges and unify the design. John will also talk about finishing techniques that enhance the shadows and highlights created by the carving.

Overall, he’ll show how power carving allows us to expand the expressive possibilities of woodturning, combing fun and spontaneity to create one-of-a-kind pieces… And lots of sawdust!