Woodshop: Turning Wooden Bowls

You can sign up for a single class or more than one. Additional dates and times may be available. Contact the instructor for scheduling.

In this class you will learn:

- Safe and efficient cutting techniques

- How to sharpen your tools (it's so much more important than you might think!)

- All the steps between the fresh-cut log and the finished bowl

- Basics of design

- Care and feeding of the wood lathe

All tools and wood are provided.

For beginners, the first lesson will focus on cutting technique using freshly-cut green wood. The emphasis is on building skills rather than completing a specific project. Greenwood bowls will definitely warp as they dry, but they're an important first step in learning how to turn. Once a student is comfortable working green wood, they can shift to dry wood to produce more stable finished pieces.

Intermediate turners, depending on skill level, can focus on a variety of projects or techniques in consultation with the instructor. Techniques and skills can include tool sharpening and maintenance, bowl form modifications such as integral handles or feet, surface embellishment, paint and other finishes, and carving.

What to bring

- The prepared greenwood turning blanks are included in the cost of the class. Please note that for intermediate students requiring dry stock or roughed dry blanks there will be a materials fee that will vary based on what is provided.

- Bowl-turning tools if you have them (we can discuss proper sharpening and tool care)

- Closed-toe shoes

- Clothes you can get grubby in. Turning smocks are provided, or you can bring your own. Hoodies, long sleeves, and dangly jewelry are inappropriate for turning. Long hair must be tied back.

- Notepad or sketchbook for taking notes. It's ok to take photos or short video clips for your own reference during class.

Kids in the woodshop

Motivated kids can do just about anything a grown-up can do, but in the woodshop there are some very real height-related safety issues. If you are purchasing this class for a child under 12 or for anyone under 5'2" tall please contact Kalia either before or immediately after ticket purchase to make sure she can provide a safe and appropriate booster platform. A parent or guardian must be present during the child's class. If you wait until just before the class to let me know that the student is a child or short person I will not be able to provide the necessary safety platform and I will not be able to refund the ticket price.

If you have any questions please contact Kalia at [email protected].

About the instructor

Kalia Kliban has been a professional woodworker since the early 1990s. She started as a cabinet and furniture maker, spent some time working in guitar making and instrument repair, and since 2011 has been solely focused on making wooden bowls, plates and other functional turned items. Her work has been featured in the magazines American Woodturner, Woodturning (UK), and Woodworker West, and in shows across the country. She is proud to have her work on view at Sebastopol Gallery (150 North Main Street, Sebastopol), and in private collections from coast to coast.

Cancellation Policy: Attendees must register for classes or request cancellations/refunds 7 days in advance. (Some classes may require more time.) Eventbrite fees will be charged to the attendee. No walk-ins.

Youth and minor policy: see our About page.

Special and group classes

Special class sessions are available. Send an email to [email protected] for more information.

Host or Publisher Chimera Arts