Woodturning Design

Summary of Demonstration/Talk by George Raeder

North Coast Woodturners ● October, 2004

 

 

DESIGN CRITERIA

 

Criteria involve form-function of the piece, lines, proportions, color/grain pattern, contrast, texture, repetition of detail, emphasis, positive/negative space and surface sheen.

 

Design considerations are basic shape, curves, terminations, location of largest diameter, base diameters and contour, rim at openings, texture, surface finish and tactile feel.

 

BASIC CONSIDERATIONS

·        Design should define and amplify the function of the piece.

·        You cannot save a bad shape by adding decoration. A bad shape remains a bad shape.

·        Maintain consistency of design. Relate interior to exterior and top to bottom details. Use reflected curves.

·        Never add anything such as coves, beads, color, decoration, etc., unless it improves the design.

·        Refrain from straight lines as they are foreign to a round turning and boring.

·        Plain woods need subtle detailing and embellishment.

·        Use simple shapes for burls and wild or contrasting grained woods.

·        If it feels good, it usually is good. Tactile feel is quite important.

·        Subtle changes in curve makes a huge difference in the quality of design.

·        Constantly look for artistic expression.

·        Break basic guidelines only with good reason.

 

OBSERVED BASIC DESIGN FAULTS

·        Visually heavy-looking shapes, usually with too much mass low on the piece

·        Bowl bottoms too thick; piece feels heavy

·        Bowl and vessel bases too wide or heavy without proper curve from sidewall through base

·        Poorly flowing curves or abrupt changes in curve

·        Inconsistent wall thickness, usually thickening toward the base

·        Inconsistency in exterior-to-interior or top-to-bottom detailing

·        Too much detailing or surface embellishment