Arch,

I use some the new-fangled aids in hollowing. The difference between what I (we?) do, and CNC, is that I define the outside of the hollow form by hand and eye, then hollow to reach a desired thickness. The shape, curves, and texture of each bowl is unique - I can't get two exactly alike, even if I try. The shape in CNC is drawn or copied, and each will turn out exactly the same (to the tolerence of the machine). Also, once the shape is drawn, and the code sent to the machine, the CNC will craft what is drawn - no editing in progress. The CNC process assumes that the design is complete before the turning begins. As I turn, I look at curves and shapes, and refine as I go. Would this piece look better with a wider rim? Would a contrasting neck set off the grain better? I like to think that some of the value in a hand-turned piece, even those complemented by new technology, comes from the turner's interaction with each piece of wood.

My 2 cents.

Ron Williams
Minn-Dak Woodturners
Moorhead, MN

If an original, exquisite near perfect bowl could be made and finished
on a machine and signed by the programmer, would it still be less worthy
than a copy of it handturned and signed? I leave the answer and
explanation to you. It seems the less an object is made by using
controlled machines and the assistance of sophisticated tooling the
higher the value placed on it by the cognoscenti. Turners have access to
threading devices, specialized kit for hollowing, ornamental equipment,
lasers and microwaves. Today's catalogs are full of turning aids and no
telling what will be offered for sale tomorrow. There's no halting
progress, but is there a dividing line drawn somewhere between holding a
gouge on a handrest and programming a CNC? If so, who drew it and where
is it drawn? Maybe it moves around according to the state of the art
and our need to return to simple things.