Our 2026 SPSW Program begins with a fun and twisted focus on spindle turning. Rick Rich is back once again. This time Rick will demonstrate making a Turmkreisel. Simple translations to English include tower spinner or pedestal spinner.
Rick Rich is a professional woodturner from Clark County, Washington. He is proud to be a founding member, and current president, of the SW Washington Woodturners. Rick is also a member the Cascade Woodturners Association in Portland, OR, the Northwest Woodturners of Tualatin, OR and the American Association of Woodturners. His strong preference is spindle turning, but he includes faceplate turning, bowls, small tabletops, dishes, and like items in his repertoire.
Rick’s description says, ‘This unique desk toy has a top which eventually tips over and stays on the tower, ready for the next spin.’ On Jan 15th, 2026, he will also demonstrate making a traditional spinning top with a small bowl to spin it in. This demo focuses on tool use techniques and exploring precision turning. No specialized tools are used—just the standard equipment most turners already have. Get ready to enjoy a fun and unique toy turning demo!
