Bill Pounds

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.
 

 


Ash and Walnut
July 10

Corian and Brass shell Cartridges for a Winchester 270
June 09

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 07/14/2010