JCCFS: Tell us more about your upcoming weekend woodturning class, “Create an Heirloom Baby Rattle” from January 24-26. 

SA: Creating a baby rattle to pass on for generations is fulfilling in so many ways. In this class you will learn the skills needed to turn a small hollow form, turn a spindle handle that will fit perfectly onto the hollow form which has the noisemakers inside. We discuss form, tool technique and finishing as well to create something that will be treasured for generations.

JCCFS: What can students expect to leave with? 

SA: This class is short but we will have fun! Imagine gifting a beautiful wooden baby rattle that you created to a relative or friend who is bringing a new life into the world. You will make your first rattle in class and have the skills to make more in your own shop. Woodturning creates such a wonderful feeling of accomplishment, that the new baby is not the only one who will benefit from the project. In class your tool skills will improve, your eye for good form will improve and you will have created a wonderful heirloom.

JCCFS: Tell us a little more about yourself for those who are unfamiliar.

SA: I have a degree in Art with a 3 dimensional emphasis from San Diego State. I was introduced to the lathe during my studies and fell in love with wood and creating things on the lathe. I have been teaching woodturning professionally for about 20 years. After college, I taught crafts to middle school students and that gave me the experience to teach just about any student! There is something magical about using your hands and eyes to create something beautiful from wood and I very much enjoy passing on that joy to others.

JCCFS: What is your favorite aspect of the John C. Campbell Folk School?

SA: The folk school feels like home whenever I am there. The people are welcoming and friendly, the woodturning studio is first class, and the food is delicious. The campus at the Folk School is beautiful and with all the space it has a very serene feel. I love walking the trails and listening to the birds.

JCCFS: What’s something you’ve made recently that you’re proud of, and why?

SA: I have made many heirloom baby rattles but remember one that stands out. It was for the granddaughter of a close friend and she loved it. When her sister was born, she started putting the rattle in the baby’s hand long before the baby could actually hold it. I was given photos of it, and it warms my heart.

JCCFS: What tips would you give an aspiring woodturner? Anything you wish you knew earlier in your career?

SA: Getting help from a mentor to hone your tool skills is the best way to start turning. You can learn on your own but with a bit of hands on help you will increase your confidence and tool control much more quickly and that will allow you to create better pieces. Time on the lathe will really help as well.