Maple and Cherry Bowls
With Shallow Coves on the Outside

Sometimes the grain pattern of a particular piece of wood is a bit plain. By creating a series of shallow coves on the outside gives greater visual appeal to the surface. I learned this technique from Al Stirt, a turner and demonstrator of national and international renown. He is a member of the woodturning club to which I belong. He is kind enough to meet with us every August at our annual picnic and is willing to critique any turnings we care to bring to him. I have found his insights tremendously helpful. Then he demonstrates techniques he has mastered such as the technique shown above.

The above design not only provides visual interest but a different tactile experience as well. These bowls just feel good in my hands. The hard edges of the coves have been sanded to a softness that just feels good, and interesting as well.

Some turners go to great lengths to make wood look like something other than wood but that is not my preference. I work with wood because I love the way wood looks. So with any embellishments I try to preserve the color and pattern of the wood grain itself. You know these vessels are wood, yet the texturing adds interest to embellish something that is already attractive.