Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher. – proverb
It’s all about skills transfer
This article came out of a chat at a recent SPSW board meeting – we were talking about the various ways that being in the club has helped all of us be better turners. Mostly this is what we learn from other members – or what we learn by teaching. Here’s a brief look at some of the ways being in the club can help YOU turn better!
1 – Sawdust Sessions
SPSW is very fortunate to have use of Nancy Sweazey’s shop for the monthly Sawdust Sessions. Every third Saturday these sessions run from 9am to midafternoon – a great place to get hands-on help in a friendly, open atmosphere where everyone there is focused on better turning. If you’ve not been to Nancy’s shop, ask Jim Cotter or Pat for a map at the next meeting..
2 – Club mentors
The club has a tremendous wealth of woodturning experience, from world-class/professional turners to right new stars with a passion for the craft – and everything in between. Eleven of the best skilled in our club have volunteered to help anyone who asks. Pictures on this page are a few of our mentors in action – if you don’t recognize them, ask at the next meeting!
3 – Teach something yourself
The best way I know to “put some polish” on one of your own skills is to teach it to somebody else. When they ask “Why?” you have to stop and think about it instead of just doing it that way – a great chance to learn something yourself! And we always need demonstrators for the mini symposiums…
Better turning is just that easy!
Try any or all of these options – I guarantee you’ll see a difference, the very next time you turn on your lathe!
– Andy Firpo, SPSW Board Member
