The Art of Turning Green Wood Bowls

Based in Atlanta, Sam A. Williams, professor of practice at Georgia State University’s Urban Studies Institute, is an expert in economic development and public policy. In his spare time, over 20 years, Atlanta’s Sam A. Williams has learned to enjoy the art of wood bowl turning. An early student of deceased artist/turner Ed Moulthrop's, whose works are in MOMA, many galleries and numerous museums, taught him that "a beautiful bowl is hidden in the log, you have to cut away the bad wood to let the piece of art evolve." 

When a turner prepares to make a bowl, he or she can choose to work with either dry or green wood. There are pros and cons to consider in choosing between these types of wood. Buying a dry piece of wood, especially figured or colored wood, can be purchased from wood dealers, so why do green bowl turning?

1. Green wood is much less expensive and frequently available from recently fallen trees in your vicinity.
2. Since the wood has more moisture, it can be cut easily and is an attractive alternative to new turners.
3. The turner has easier control over the creation of the bowl from start to finish using special chisels called gouges. However, green wood must be carefully and slowly dried to prevent cracking. 
4. Using wood from a freshly fallen tree preserves a part of that tree. While the wood simply decays in the forest, the bowl will last for years.