My interest in woodturning began twenty years ago.
Guy Sasaki, my hunting and fishing partner and friend, introduced me to woodturning. He was the wood shop teacher at Konawaena High School. He exposed me to many different types of wood and as a result, I was able to assemble quite a collection for my woodturning projects.
This varied collection of wood pieces, especially koa and milo, were responsible for me beginning to visualize bowls and other projects. This began my wanting to do more turning.
When I joined West Hawaii Woodturners, Kelly Dunn was a great mentor with much encouragement and positive critique. He changed my view on shapes, proportions, and taught me better finishing of my projects.
The most challenging part of woodturning for me has been the final cuts on a bowl. As a result, I spend too much time sanding. The most rewarding part of the whole process is the faces of friends that receive my pieces.
Being a part of West Hawaii Woodturners has expanded my confidence and has given me new ideas as what can be done with different kinds of beautiful wood. The challenges at each meeting have been vital in inspiring my interest, confidence, and skill.
The fellowship and meeting new friends has been a great bonus to my membership.
As a retired dentist, continuing to work with my hands turning wood and making art pieces is a great place to be in my retirement.