I’ve been creating segmented turnings for more than ten years. After completing entry-level projects such as pens, bottle stoppers, and kit-based pieces, I became captivated by segmenting. Green turning never appealed to me because I was too impatient to wait months for the wood to dry. Then I discovered Ray Allen’s Southwestern designs and was drawn to their intricate, puzzle-like quality. Since then, I’ve created classic vessel forms featuring distinctive segmented rings.
I joined the Ohio Valley Woodturners Guild to connect with other segmenters but quickly discovered that only a few members practiced the craft. After befriending them, I set out to build broader interest in segmenting within the Guild. Together, we taught introductory classes, and I later led several advanced sessions at the OVWG Learning Center. I also demonstrated segmenting at the OVWG symposia in 2023 and 2025 and recently presented a Zoom demonstration on feature rings for the Segmenters Guild. I continue to enjoy teaching and sharing the possibilities of segmenting with “round and brown” turners.
I’m proud that one of my vessels was featured in an AAW Magazine article about complex laminations. A Guild Challenge a couple of years ago got me to share my lamination work. I’ve started to explore ornamental turning with a rose engine, which I now combine with segmented work. My Woodturner friends say” “ He is headed down another rabbit hole “. They are correct and the rabbit holes get deeper and wider every day.
The Segmenters Guild has introduced me to even more exciting aspects of our craft. Bowls from a board, stave construction, and especially feature rings continue to challenge and inspire me.