Jerry Davidson

Washington County

Turned Wood

Jerry Davidson has tinkered with wood his entire life. While he was in the Marine Corps, he purchased an inexpensive lathe that he used to create odd pieces, and then put the lathe away for many years. Always interested in wood, Jerry joined the International Wood Collectors Society. The members of this society gather from all over the world to display multitudes of wood they have collected from many countries. Members use their wood carving skills to create one-of-kind items out of unique types of wood.

Jerry was inspired by these creations to rediscover the lathe. He purchased a newer, higher quality lathe and began training himself to make bowls. He begins with a solid piece of wood (black walnut and rose wood are two of his favorites). Then he allows the wood to show him the bowl. He tries to utilize the variations of the patterns in the wood, and is always mindful of letting the wood be his guide. After sanding, he prefers to use lacquer to finish his pieces.