Hand Turned Vase with Gerard – Vase_J26
Learn advanced turning and finishing skills with Master Turner Gerard Merchant
From a raw block of wood to a stunning vase, learn how refined turning technique and creative color application can create a work of art.
Join wood artist Gerard Merchant for this exciting workshop to learn how to confidently turn elegant hollow forms, as well how to apply stunning color and ceramic-like finishes to wood turnings.
With decades of experience, Gerard has developed incredibly effective and creative techniques for both turning and surface embellishment that produce beautiful results—and he’s here to share them.
Each student will produce their own hand-turned vase with a unique layered color finish.
You will learn:
- How to turn and shape hollow forms on the lathe, creating a graceful vase from a raw log
- How to select and apply color to wood
- How to build layers of rich color
- How to apply a UV-cured finish to lock in depth and vibrancy
- How to finish your project for a flawless, durable shine
Prerequisites: Beginning Bowl Turning or equivalent
Tools required: None. All tools and materials supplied by the school. However, if you have your own lathe tools, you are welcome to bring them.
Please read and understand our Refund and Cancellation policies. By making payment you acknowledge that you have read and understood these policies.
Please note: If you are paying by cash or check, your registration is not complete until
payment is received.
Safety
Eye, hearing and dust protection are required in the machine room or when operating machines in the bench room.
Long sleeves and loose-fitting clothing are not allowed around the power equipment.
Long hair must be pulled back and secured.
For your saftey: Shoes with open toes or open heels are not allowed. Sandals and clogs, including Crocs, are NOT allowed.
Public health policy: Masks are optional, however, if you are exhibiting symptoms of
any contagious illness or if you have had a positive test for any contagious illness within
the past 5 days, please notify the school and do not attend class.
Thank you for your understanding.
Gerard Merchant
Turning Instructor
Gerard Merchant started working with wood when he was six years old and equipped with nothing more than a hammer, a saw, and a lot of curiosity. He worked as a carpenter and a cabinet installer before running his own commercial millwork and cabinet shop. Now a professional wood artist, he produces beautifully turned bowls, vases, pens, and pepper mills, and incorporates color and resin work inspired by fine ceramics.
Through his work in both commercial craftsmanship and fine art woodturning, Gerard has developed not only masterful technique, but also a deep understanding of how to run a safe shop, how to work effectively with tools and keep equipment in good order, and how to share his expertise with newer woodworkers while helping them find their own style.
Believing that the best work happens when you let the material lead, rather than trying to force a shape onto a piece of timber, Gerard approaches teaching in the same way, creating an empowering classroom experience infused with creativity.