2026-10-23 - Scandinavian Bowl Turning on a Spring Pole Lathe
Class Details
- Schedule: October 23-25 (9:00-5:00 pm CT)
- Location: This is an in-person class held at Vesterheim Folk Art School.
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Instructor: David Susag
- Level of Instruction: Beginner Friendly
Description
Well before the industrial period brought us mechanized power lathes, a foot-powered lathe was an important tool for making round and hollow objects such as bowls, cups, plates, furniture, and farm tool parts. These wooden objects ranged from simple and easily replaceable to finely crafted, treasured works of art. Join bowl turner David Susag for a three-day introduction to the foot-powered spring pole lathe with an emphasis on creating Nordic-style bowls common from the Viking period through industrialization. Students will work through the process of preparing bowl blanks, hollowing, and shaping bowls while learning about the mechanics and designs of this simple but effective tool.
Take the companion class Making tools for Bowl Turning on October 22 for a discounted rate when taken together!
Prerequisites
Physical ability: Foot-powered lathe turning requires coordination, balance, and physical exertion. This class requires physical strength and stamina, as well as the ability to balance on one leg for extended periods of time.
Skill level: While no previous turning experience is necessary, students are encouraged to have previous experience working with green wood, such as a spoon or bowl carving class.
Supplies
A $50 materials fee is payable to the instructor during class. Students should bring their own safety glasses and are encouraged to bring their own carving axes.
Vesterheim's woodworking classes are supported in part by a generous gift to the Vesterheim Annual Fund from the Eric and Joan Norgaard Charitable Trust.
Enrollment Deadline
October 2, 2026