Woodturning: A Foundation Course Paperback – Import, 31 December 1998

bought this when I bought a lathe and found both the book and DVD very clear and useful. It has been interesting, having tried following the instructions and also looking at various YouTube videos just how many YouTube demos are showing some really poor methods. What this book teaches is quite clearly superior.I like the DVD as I can try stuff out then go back and look at the DVD again and see what I am doing wrong and then have another try.

I wanted an introduction to wood turning from a well trained old school woodturner. The book provides a thorough grounding in all the essential skills of wood turning and is written by a proper wood turner who understands the importance of core skills and getting smooth surfaces off the tool. If you spend the time learning all the skills in each lesson of this book you will be well on the way to being a competent turner. If however you are of a modern disposition and want to cut every corner and just pretend to be a good turner I suppose you could do that too; this book would be helpful either way I suppose. It’s a great book and in some ways it’s a challenge to any prospective wood turner. Are you for real or just playing?

A useful and informative video presented by someone who obviously knew his craft well. Un fortunately the book itself leaves a deal to be desired, as in common with many books written by experts has many shortcomings in the presentation of vital information for the beginner. I have some 5 years experience of wood turning but even so found some of the narrative difficult to follow.As far as the video is concerned its fun looking out for the health and safety gaffes (see how many times he keeps hold of a tool whilst using another one - a big no-no!!) Its also interesting that he never seems to bother about protecting himself from wood dust and shavings.

This is a great book for those starting out in wood turning covering all of the fundamental aspects of the hobby including some progressive projects which will help develop your skills. The accompanying DVD is also very good, however I feel that no prizes will be won in terms of dynamic presentation, it felt like a woodworking lesson from a 1950's classroom, having said that the information is very useful, and well worth watching. What is nice is that it is a British guide unlike so many others that come from America. Highly recommended

I was advised to read this book before buying anything for wood turning. I am very glad I did and learned so much from the book and even more from the included DVD that I saved hugely by purchasing appropriate lathe and tools that I have recently got going successfully with the turning.Can’t recommend this book enough and I keep referring back to it.