Neil Joynt Demonstration Day

On Friday 9 October from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, members of the Waikato Woodworkers Guild and Hamilton Woodturners Club were privileged to watch one of NZ’s finest woodturners, Neil Joynt, demonstrating and sharing his knowledge. We were the last destination of a National Tour organized by the National Association of Woodworkers. The day was divided into four sessions: turning a thin wall pot and pyrography; lidded box with inlay; jewellery for markets and a tea caddy.

This was a wonderful opportunity to learn from an accomplished woodturner who not only exhibited beautifully crafted work but also shared secrets throughout the sessions. When asked how he uses a hot glue gun, Neil did not just explain but showed us how to do off-centre turning for jewellery design, gluing only the edges to secure the two pieces of wood. He deliberately made a mistake and used copper powder and thin ca glue to fix it. Within each demonstration there was a wealth of knowledge and learning for those of all skill levels. Even the most experienced present went away with at least one new idea.

Many thanks to those who made this day possible especially Guild President, Grant Taylor, who was MC and ensured we had plenty to eat at lunchtime. Demonstrations by passionate and creative woodturners, like Neil, who are good at communicating their techniques are inspirational.

Gary Judkins