Alan has been involved in woodturning for over fifty years as a turner, teacher, writer, exhibition coordinator, demonstrator, and expert witness. Alan has been an instructor and demonstrator, working in 50 states and six foreign countries. His published writings—upwards of 150 articles and one book—cover a wide spectrum of woodturning from historical and cultural, technical and specific projects. His specialties include the skew chisel, sharpening techniques, finishing, marbling on wood, lidded boxes and making/using hook tools. In 1999 he was awarded the Honorary Member for that year from the American Association of Woodturners for his contributions to the field. He has appeared in television programs nationally on PBS and DYI channels.

SKEW FUNDAMENTALS
A close look at preparing and sharpening the skew chisel—and profile alternatives. Next, Alan will look at preparing the lathe for skew work—and mounting wood in such a way as to reduce the fear factor. Finally, as time allows, he will take you through the fundamentals of the planing, peeling and several types of V-cuts.

SKEW CHISEL: BEYOND THE FUNAMENTALS
This presentation presupposes you attended the basic session OR you have sufficient experience with the skew. Alan will focus on two of the most challenging cuts with the skew: pommel and rolling cuts. Tips for increasing the odds of success with both of these cuts will be demonstrated. He will leave you with specific practice projects for both of these cuts.

VIRTUES OF OIL-BASED FINISHES
Alan will clarify the many types of finishes that are sold under the banner of oil finishes. This will include descriptions and samples of pure oil, oil and varnish blend, wiping varnish and polymerized oil. Part of the session will include mixing your own concoctions—and why you might wish to do so.

VIRTUES OF SHELLAC FINISHES
In this session Alan will clarify the origins of shellac as it relates to turning and the large number of shellac finishes on the market—that may or may not identify themselves as shellac. He will point out the incredible strengths of shellac and also its limitations. Watch as he prepares shellac from flakes and demonstrates French polishing on the lathe. He will also explain the advantages of spraying shellac with a small automotive finishing gun.