Author Archives: Ed Pretty

About Ed Pretty

I am a professional woodturner, specializing in gallery work, commercial work, teaching and demonstrating. I have been turning since 1958, so... a long time. I use this site to present my work to the public at large and to let people know that I am available for teaching private lessons in woodturning. Wood turning is one of my passions (the other is motorcycle touring). It is my desire to pass on everything that I have learned over the years to others so that the craft of woodturning will grow.

Ring Distaves and Nostepinnes

Posted on June 11, 2024 by Ed Pretty

Tools no spinner should be without. Ring Distaves and Nostepinnes. There is a great post by Kim McKenna about Nostepinnes on her site. Check it out here! While you’re there, have a look around. There is a ton of stuff … Continue reading →

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Drop Spindles and Cups

Posted on June 11, 2024 by Ed Pretty

Now, moving on to the Supported Spindles. Like the drop spindles, the whorls are all balanced prior to assembly and the finish is a friction polish. The “nub” or point that supports the spindle is typically the end grain of … Continue reading →

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Tools for Fiber Artists

Posted on June 4, 2024 by Ed Pretty

Recently I was asked by a fiber artist to make drop spindles. I had never heard of them before, so a little research was in order. My first impression – from photos – was that it was no more than … Continue reading →

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A Journey Through Time

Posted on January 15, 2021 by Ed Pretty

When teaching new turners I always try to instill in them the need to honour the wood, to always give it their best effort. In the past, wood was so prevalent that it was considered – and still is by … Continue reading →

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New IRD dates for 2021

Posted on January 2, 2021 by Ed Pretty

We have posted the new dates for 2021 IRD (Interactive Remote Demonstrations). Don’t miss out! Book early. Here they are: Beyond ABC – 26 January 2021 – 3:00 – 5:00 pm PST Butterfly Crack Repair – 10 Feb 2021 – … Continue reading →

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Sharpening Woodturning Tools

Posted on September 20, 2020 by Ed Pretty

This demo covers sharpening equipment requirements and options including grinder/belt types and wheel types and accessory grinding jigs. Basic tool steel pros and cons are explained. Considerations when sharpening all types of tools (including vee vs. parabolic fluted bowl gouges), … Continue reading →

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Sharpening Your Woodturning Tools Properly

Posted on September 8, 2020 by Ed Pretty

Even if you are an experienced woodworker, sharpening woodturning tools is counter-intuitive to sharpening flat woodworking tools. Understanding the difference makes your woodturning experience enjoyable rather than frustrating. Continue reading →

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Workshop Dust Control – A Must

Posted on September 4, 2020 by Ed Pretty

Originally written for Craftsy by Ed, titled “Breathe Easier With These Tips for Workshop Sawdust Control” A lathe easily contends for top spot for dust production in your shop. Your only hope of having any control at all is to … Continue reading →

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How To Turn a Wooden Scarf Ring and Pin Set

Posted on September 4, 2020 by Ed Pretty

Originally written by Ed for Craftsy as “Turn a Wooden Scarf Ring and Pin Set For Christmas”> A gift made by hand is a gift from the heart. A turned scarf ring and pin set the ideal gift for a … Continue reading →

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Spindle Turning Without a Copy Attachment

Posted on September 4, 2020 by Ed Pretty

Originally written by Ed for Craftsy as “One and the Same: Spindle Turning Without a Copy Attachment” If Eli Wallach were a wood turner, his famous line would have been, “Copiers! We don’t need no stinkin’ copiers!” It seems that … Continue reading →

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