Bill Pounds

Introductory Statement

My lifelong interest in woodcraft turned in 1997 when I purchased my first
lathe.  I have been an avid turner since then, and enjoy the challenge and
satisfaction of each new piece.  Every piece of wood has a secret and offers
the attentive turner a lesson.

I particularly enjoy turning useful items.  For me, wood is most beautiful
when it can be held in the hand.  My work includes bowls of course, but also
boxes, platters, desk accessories, and toys.  I find satisfaction when my
pieces become an attractive part of daily life.

Most of the wood used in my work comes from urban trees.  My home area of
Whittier is blessed with many trees, most of which are imported from
elsewhere around the world.  Whittier is very protective of our trees, but
when they do come down it is fitting that they can become something
beautiful again.  The pieces shown below represent some of my recent work.
 

Red Maple  3" June 08

Ring Box September 07 Zebra Wood

Silky Oak bowl with Natural Edge 9" Wide x 3" Tall, Turned Green, Oil Finish This piece was turned within days of cutting the tree.  After turning, the yellow sapwood dried with distinct vertical striations that are interesting to the touch.

Olive Bowl 7.5" Diameter x 2.5" Tall, Turned Green, Oil Finish This is a nicely figured piece of local Olive root ball.

Figured Maple Bowl, Relaxing Square Edge Profile 8" Diameter x 1.5" Tall, Kiln Dried, Oil Finish

Italian Cypress Bowl with Purpleheart Rim 7" Diameter x 2.5" Tall, Buffed Wax Finish I like the multiple contrasts in this piece.  The Juniper is soft, easily tooled, and has nice figure.  The Purpleheart is hard, difficult to cut cleanly, and has little visual appeal other than it's unique color.

Ficus Bowl with Rolled Rim 6" Diameter x 2" Tall, Turned Green, Oil Finish Ficus turns beautifully.  When fresh cut it is very light colored, but quickly assumes a delightful golden oak color.

updated 05/23/2008