Ashley, this video could be a TED talk. The quality of the message was that good. The laithe and band saw are the only machines missing in my shop. After watching one of your videos, I said that not having the tools was not an excuse, so I chucked a jig into my drill mounted the drill so it was stable, and started to turn my own spindles for my deck. Of course, I will never be as successful as a craftsman, as I am missing the most important part. One incredibly beautiful smile that is full of love. Your channel and Culver Propellers are my favorite craftsman channels.
Someone once asked me “you hardly make any money at this why do you keep going at it” My reply was “why do you breathe” I guess it’s in your blood and when you deliver your product to the customer and you see how happy you just made them.. well you cannot put a price on that. I just really like making people happy that’s not a crime it’s a gift. Thank you so much for your videos I’m also a woodworker with knowledge passed down from my father and at 56 I’m still learning. Never stop ❤️
I’m 75, my first turning experience was in 7th grade shop class. I went on to a top business school, a corporate career and dabbled at turning. I have no aspirations of earning an income. I just want to perfect my technique so I am proud of the work. Regardless of all those comments, this is a terrific video. Thank you
I'm a woodworker(high end furniture) and there's always some blood, sweat and tears in every piece I make. You're an inspiration to people who don't have a knack for wood turning!
While trying my utmost to stay positive and be as polite as possible, I'm really struggling to try and imagine how utterly sad the lives of the 30 people who've given this video a thumbs down must be. Not sure where you find solace but I truly hope that you do.
Having lived in Charleston for a year and a half, giving up A/C is definitely a sacrifice. Thank you for the message Ashley. It really does mean a lot, and may be more powerful than you realize.
Learning? That is more truth than poetry. I spent most of my life in maintenance, that is different everyday and the learning curve is never ending. I retired a few years back, but now I explain to those who are interested in how to do as many things as the 2 of us can do, as well as learn from those other persons. You definitely hit the nail on the head with this video. Great job young lady, keep it up.
I am a shop teacher in training. In my part of the world, we go to shop teacher school where we learn basic woodworking, electronics, automotive, engineering, metalwork, welding and other trade related skills that we are to teach high school students. Woodturning is my latest RUclips binge at the moment. Watching you turn that Barolo table is nothing short of amazing! Also, I just purchased a small lathe to start practicing my technique at home so I can better teach my future students. Thanks for reminding me about repetition and giving myself the space to get the technique right.
Well said. Having just started turning at 73 I was struggling even with youtube. Took me about 6 months to figure out I just needed to start with the basics and practice. It only took me watching about 15 different teachers on youtube saying the same things till it finally sunk in. I bought a good grinder and diamond wheel, then some sharpening aids and then after watching for about riding the bevel a hundred times.... one day I actually accomplished it......... WOW! Now I actually see progress each time in the shop..... and screw up a lot of stuff but I'm now to the point of understanding how I "got that catch". It's very rewarding. I now go to my local bar and "show and tell" all my screw ups! Keep it up, you are doing great work spreading the knowledge.
I am 70 years young. Retired and disabled. I can not just sit around, so I started carving some time ago, Now for the past year I have bought a mini lathe and the journey begins. I watch all your videos I can find and learn from them. I would hope that someday I could take your classes.
Ashley, Thanks for the fresh insight into craftsmanship. I have almost never sold my work, only gave it away. The few times I did it for profit. My passion for woodworking seemed like a job. As I get closer to retiring from working for someone else. I find I am enjoying the challenge of selling my crafts. It's no longer the feeling of a job, but more of a challenge to produce a piece of art worthy of great conversations. Keep turning and talking.
Out of all your videos I have watched, this one has had the most impact on my self image as a woodworker/turner/maker. You have inspired me to a higher level of desire to learn my craft. I thank you and look forward to seeing more videos of your work and travels.
I just want to start and say this hit me hard, but hard in a way that was positive. I am new to wood turning and only been turning for a year. I have always worked with my hands in some way or another, but never had the satisfaction I get when I turn. I have this urge inside of me to create and have always been told you won't make a living at it. I have struggled lately with this. Making things for other people brings me such joy. I have struggled lately making mistakes messing up on simple things. I have struggled on selling my projects consistently and for a price that represents my time and work that goes into my projects. I have never worked for something I want in life. I have always tried to please everyone around me. For once I have found what makes me happy. So I guess what I am trying to say is THANK YOU....... I needed to hear this from someone like you..
Your work isn’t as a much a reflection of how the thousands of hours at the lathe have improved your technical abilities, as it is a reflection of how much you have grown as an individual and a piece created by Ashley Harwood is a work of art, infinitely more valuable than one sold in the big box stores.
After four decades in business there are a few fundamental truths I have come to (not because of me but because they are just facts..). If it is not a viable business, it's a hobby. The person signing the front of the check make the rules. The craft will never be as hard as the business. It doesn't take motivation, it takes dedication. What an outstanding talk Ashley, you have covered these facts of life so well. Such a joy to hear.
I am super impressed with the craftsmanship that you demonstrate. I live in the UK and I am not a wood turner myself, but I love seeing the art that is created from a ‘lump’ of wood. You clearly have the skills, which combined with your passion for teaching make your videos a delightful way to expand knowledge. Keep that smile going too, it’s wonderful.
The reason why I follow craftsman like you is because of the hardwork and dedication paid to your craft. These are things I would like to eventually do as a hobby, but I don't have that same desire to put in the 12 hour days, nor the desire to give up a really good steady pay check. But these are things that I can admit about myself and not take away from the hard work of others. I hate when I see others commenting that it was just luck, or I could do that if I were given this that or the other. Maybe there was some luck involved, but that luck only comes into play after putting in the hardwork. And the items that were given only helped to get you further along only after putting in the work to get to that point. I think a lot of people are unhappy with their lives and respond by trying to tear others down. That's why when I leave a comment it is either to show appreciation or constructive criticism or maybe a different perspective.
Ashley - When I retired a few years ago I started watching RUclips and Instagram in lieu of television. Your videos were one of the first I viewed and was immediately intrigued by your dedication and commitment to the craft. Now that I know your story you have my utmost respect. Thank you for keeping both the arts and the industry alive and giving young people a common knowledge of what to expect. Witnessing your experiences is the best way to get you message to the masses! Keep up the great work and keep the videos coming if you can!
I attended your demo in Raleigh, NC and saw you demo for the first time, live. Loved all of it. This video of what it takes to do this full-time, is also spot-on. Clear, concise, down-to-earth, not afraid to share that you are human, which makes your message heartfelt and believable. As a female who has spent her entire adult life in male-dominated professions and hobbies, I have lived some of those experiences you described. Keep speaking your message, there are a lot of young people who need to hear it.
Excellent message. Because of an unexpected change in my health, I was forced to retire early from the only profession I've ever known or loved. Woodworking has always been an enjoyable hobby, but now I am looking at it more as something to maintain both my sanity and to give me direction again as my wife and I go forward in this new normal. Thank you for the clarity and honesty you provide in this presentation.
Beautifully spoken and wonderfully inspirational If any of you have an inspiring young artist whom you plan to have watch this video, ( and you should) be sure to not gloss over Ashley's statement, " One big regret of mine is that I never took any business classes in college." It will help shorten the learning curve immensely and avoid some to the inherent pitfalls along the journey.
Hi Ashley I love your work & video's I have never done woodturning but due to me having to retire early due to a hit & run on my motorbike I had to find something to help me in my recovery so I watched youtube & saw woodturning so I bought a second-hand mini Jet machine had to do a bit of work to get it running smoothly plus secondhand chisels & tried it & now I love it it has helped me to forget my pain for a while so thank you all woodturners on RUclips making & sharing your work & advice. Regards Steve UK London
My first , and only turning was made in high school woodshop in the late 50's. I made a lamp from a bowling pin which I gave to my son a few years ago but I never had the equipment to do more...till now. I am finally getting set up to do the wood turning that I enjoyed in high school I am Inspired to do much more because of you and others I have seen on RUclips. I don't plan on making a business from it but I will practice to become better every day. Thanks for your inspiration and example. It's never too late to do something again only do it better.
My craft mentor is a master cabinet maker and you touched on SOOO many of the lessons he imparts to me!!! thank you for presenting this without bopping me in the head 🙂 All of this applies across the board in life and parallels directly into martial arts! Practicing the motions slowly and perfectly is far more important than practicing the motions with full force.
Ashley, thank you for your videos, my wife a I watch them and look forward to them. We strive to improve with every project and have been making family Christmas gifts for several years. You inspire us, thanks again!
Ashley, I have watched all of your videos and so far I found this video is the best one . You looked relaxed and was very informative. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much Ashley . I am working on a "shadow box" coffee table . I have spent all summer working on it , questions came up in the design, issues that I had to address on the fly. I work as flooring installer with my brother for a "surviving job" . To keep a long story short , I have been restless with not moving my creativity in the direction I want .The direction of a self sustaining business. I love every aspect of wood working , from carving to turning to making furniture; I even get into the cutting down and milling of my own timber, more to do than I have life in me I am afraid. This video was a good way to tell me to "do your business or get off the pot ". Well , your words of wisdom hit home . your way more talented than you let on. your a beautiful person Ashley. thanks for letting us into your life through the "miracle" of RUclips. Keep the inspiration coming , I know I need it . Bless you lady
Such a great treatise on craft and crafting. She eloquently covers process and product in her usual, pleasant delivery. I'm reminded of a Wendell Berry line - her hands know as much as her head.
The thing you say at 4:15 was key decision. You can buy anything from ‘offshore’ these days, and so much stuff out there is bought by the container load then passed off at markets as hand made or folk art etc. Proof that you did this was important, glad you did it.
Excellent information with no sugar coating. This is something all those people offering a true craftsman 1/2 the asking price for a product should watch! All their time and practice and effort are truly worth something. Even as a beginner woodturner I really enjoy your videos.....I'll never turn most of the things you do, but I certainly admire your talent, artistic vision, how you seem to have a soft or gentle touch with your tools and most of all, your humbleness. Take care and keep inspiring!
That was an amazing and very well thought out video. You hit the nail right on, woodworking is a passion, and it shows in your work. I have also loved working with wood since I was very young. Now when I do a craft show, the look on someone's face when they say something like "You made that out of a log you found on the side of the road?" I still get that wonderful feeling of satisfaction. Thanks again for your videos. Very inspiring to achieve the name of "Craftperson."
Ashley, you seem to be a natural in front of the camera. I sell my turnings in a gallery, and truly enjoy woodworking in general. Your journey and progression are inspiring!
Thanks for the pep talk and keeping it real Ashley. Nothing worth pursuing happens overnight and you spell it all out here beautifully. There is very little luck involved, just hard work, practicing the right things, and having that drive to know you have a goal... but the journey should be enjoyed.
I'm a metal sculpture person that came across you on Instagram. I don't have the desire for wood turning but love and admire your talents. Thank you for this video. Very relevant!
Ashley very well done. I have been at it for 30 plus years and work every day, 7 days a week...and I still love it. I think I am very fortunate to make a living as a crafts person, it is a gift. Keep turning!!
You are an inspiration, I teach at a college in ontario, and will pass on these words of wisdom to my carpentry students. Love to see women excel in the trades. Thanks for being awesome!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and frankness. I started turning just a few months ago after watching YT videos for three years. You were an inspiration along with many others. I've always been good at working with my hands plus I've got perfectionist tendencies so my work has already received praise. Several have told me I should sell my work but I don't want to make this a business because I want to remain fun. Trying to pay the mortgage, keep the lights on and food in the cupboards by making wooden bowls is too steep a mountain to climb. I have sold a few things and I'm not opposed to earning a few $$$'s along the way (still need a bandsaw LOL) but I'll keep my day job. I hope to take one of your classes next year so i can improve my skill set. Stuart
I've spent 30 plus years perfecting my craft. You are spot on in many things you have pointed out in this video. Thanks for sharing and keep up the GREAT work!
This was by far the best from the heart video concerning choosing woodworking as a possible career. I echo many of your statements in the video. After 42 years I look back at the early days just starting out, the mistakes and the sacrifices I made. A big Powermatic Bandsaw over Car AC. Bandsaw wins everytime! You inspired me over the past few months to buy a new Laguna 1836 (An upgrade from my Jet Midi Lathe), chucks, tool rests, better bowl gouges etc. A host of other items I see you use. I figured heck if she can get good so can I, at least I hope so. Turning pens and other small things are okay, but look out bowl turning. Richard Raffin was who I have looked up to over the past 25 years, now I look up to you! This video was long overdue, Thank You!
You have gust turned a light on in my head. In my work it is not the product but the reflection of the joy and love embedded with in every piece a one off or 50. Thankyou Ron
Wow...Ashley this was an inspiring talk. I have watched every single RUclips video since you started and this one is by far the most captivating and thought provoking video you have produced. Even though there was no teaching, training, demonstrating or how to’s, it is precisely the reason I thoroughly enjoy and appreciate the effort you put into your videos. I’m mostly retired and love to tinker in my wood ‘play shop’ and wood turning is a passion. You are a treasure to watch and listen to, keep up the great work. Cheers from Alberta, Canada.
Thank you so much for taking the time to do this video. I turn pens and find myself wanting to expand on my turning. I really want to learn to turn bowls. My wife went out and bought me a 1/2 inch bowl gouge and bowl scraper made by cryogenic. Been watching videos of you and Stuart Batty I learn best by watching if I watch someone do something I can do it. I refuse to to turn anything until I learn how to do it even though having the tools really makes me want to thanks again for the videos you make very much appreciated and have a blessed day and life
Wow, someone that really gets it. What it means to be a real craftsman and what it takes. I'm so impressed Ashley. By you as a craftsman and as a businessperson. I want to take your class one day. At 60 years old, retired Army, retired Carpenter, and wood carver. My next leg is wood turner. I hope to meet you soon
So generously shared, Ashley. You have covered in less than 20 minutes the sage skill set and dedication most people take a lifetime of hard knocks to learn and then they still need to add the business skills. I have had the privilege of spending my working life in the greenhouse farming world and now as I reach into my 60s I have taken to bowl turning as an aside. Your current video is invaluable as a learning tool set in any career. To end off, as a farmer I fully understand your having to master many skills and your having to wire your shop had me smiling in deep understanding. Well done and thank you, so many reminders for me in 16+ minutes.
Ash - Great educational tour of your career path and growing your businesses. Congrats on who you’ve become. I have 14 yo triplet daughters (and two older sons) and all of them will be asked to watch this video. I try to expose them to inspirational leaders who have and are enduring in life by pursuing their passions. You say you wish you took a business class - as a person who has multiple business degrees, have confidence that you are so far beyond the lessons learned in the best business schools. They have something to learn from you. Pls keep up the amazing craftwork and teachings.
Thank you for a great talk Ashley. I've been following you since you first appeared on RUclips and realise that you have put so much work into your craft that you are now at the top of the tree. I've been turning for the last eight years and when I happen across some of my early work I cringe so I've come a long way but am still not where I want to be. However, I'm determined to get there. About a month ago an acquaintance told me he had started turning. I invited him in twice for one hour sessions and on both occasions we emerged three hours later covered in shavings. I can't believe I'm now teaching someone and my "student" is coming along fine. In our last session we turned a zebra wood bowl and my friend went through the bottom. He was horrified but i reassured him that I'd done that several times but there was a way out of it. I turned a little ebony plug to fit neatly in the hole and advised him to tell his friends that the felt the stripes in the wood were a bit overpowering so had decided to break it up by placing an ornamental piece of ebony in the bottom. By the way, I think more of my lathe than I do for my car.
Thank you Ashley, not only for the great woodturning videos, but also for the great advice. You have transcended craftmenship to become an artist of true note. Keep it up and thanks again for sharing.
I'm an accountant and have always told people setting up in business that they will have two jobs. One is what they do, plumber, electrician, mechanic or wood turner, for example, and the other is running their business. Once they've done their first job they have to do the second. Paying bills, dealing with payroll, juggling money, planning the next job, ordering materials, marketing, budgeting, paying taxes etc etc is at least as big a job as what they do. Most people don't much like their second job but it's important and has to be done. Well done you for doing so well and I hope you continue to succeed.
Well I really appreciate that you sharing this story of you. I have to say, yes you are right. It's all about repeating things to get more comfortable with the work, the own body during work and to kinda build reflexes for start working on for example on the lathe. That you are able to feel how to grab and hold the tool, but also what you have to check, before you start to work or between different steps of work. Building up skills is a long way, but i think, no amount of money can you give the feeling of being proud and confidence, when you've made something with your own hands. This feeling increases incredible, when other people would like to buy these products and worship you work. When i sold one of my first items on a market to a little girl and she was so proud of having this handcrafted leaf neclace and started to presenting it to other people... it meant the world to me. Nobody can reach these feeling with money. It's just amazing. I love your videos, they give me more than just informations and inspiration. What I've seen especially in this video was the wooden jewellery. Maybe you can tell and show us some creation process of these pieces as well. I do wooden jewellery as well, but more simple carvings, today I saw these beautiful necklaces and I really would love to know how you did it. Please go one and follow your way. Lovely greetings from Dresden in Germany.
Thank you for sharing this with us. I really enjoyed it and it spoke to me. As someone for whom woodworking is a hobby; I mostly make pieces for myself and friends and the occasional side project in order to pay for my woodworking habit I have to re-examine my approach to woodworking. I have it too much in my mind to quickly finish a project in order to get to the next one and I need to adjust that thinking. It causes me to get impatient and rush a project. We all know how that works out. I appreciate your channel and will keep tuning in.
My wife and I are going to make 2021 our year by starting a business for our crafts. This video on craftsmanship is so very timely and directly what we are trying to capture. Seriously, your efforts and craftsmanship are so awesome! Thanks so very very much for sharing!!!!
This is an excellent address of something that often goes unspoken in the pursuit of skill. I do joinery as a hobby, and the box is an important basic form that many start with. Dovetailed corners with a rabbet for a slide top lid, and a rabbet for the bottom. You are going to make a lot of boxes, and I've made a lot of boxes, and will make a lot more boxes. It was while doing this that I realized, truly realized, the lesson Mr Miyagi was teaching Daniel with 'wax-on wax-off'. In repetition of the form at its simplest, that is where you begin to build competency, and from competency you can progress towards skill. Whether you are making a bed frame, a chest of drawers, or a table. The final piece of furniture is derived from the same basic practiced forms, but at different scales and in a different combination.
Very positive, authentic and real message. Much appreciated. "You get good at what you practice.......good or bad" so it makes sense to learn how to practice progress not perfection. Thanks for this.
Most inspiring motivational talk I have ever heard Ashley. As a aspiring 73 year old wood carver this old man needed to hear that. On to farmers market! Thank you! ❤️
Thank you Miss Ashley! You speak words of wisdom that ring so true. I’ve been a woodworker for nearly 70 years and realize that never a day goes by when there isn’t something new to learn. We’re never too old. Good Craftsmanship is indeed a quest we all strive for and as you say, it takes a lot of work. Keep up your great work and stay healthy.
Thank you. I'm just a hobby wood worker. But your words resonate strongly with me. Both for my hobby, but also for my career craft as a software engineer.
Ashley, thank you so much for sharing this video, such great value in your advice. You have so much talent in so many ways (including the piano) You have inspired me to take the plunge & work for my self doing something I love to do. Thanks again, take care.
There is so much to making a living with your own business that others never realize. I think only a very few craft people can make a profit at it, let alone a living. Thank you for sharing .
Ashley, The message you give in this video has spoken volumes to me. I’ve been in manufacturing and logistics for 17 years and recently decided earlier this year that I want to make woodturning my new career. You speak from the heart of a genuine professional who knows her craft inside and out, and what it truly takes to make any kind of viable income from it. I cannot express how thankful I am for your outpouring of knowledge to world of aspiring woodworkers. I look forward to taking your classes one day so I can inhale that knowledge and work side-by-side with the Queen of Woodturning!
@@AM-fo1jp You don't understand. I've been turning for nearly a year already. Own a Laguna and have a small shop. It’s because I’ve been turning for nearly a year that I’ve decided to make it a career. Have an absolute passion for it.
I just started wood turning you , Nick from UK, and Ben works from Australia really thought me well I watch y'all and take it all in thanks for taking the time
A great talk, Ashley! The satisfaction of making things is wonderful. The satisfaction of people Wanting the things you make is sublime! I brought our granddaughter in to my shop before she went to college this year and together we made a corkboard/magnetic chalkboard communication center. She ran tools without flinching and I bragged about her to all of my coworkers!! Hopefully, she will create things on her own someday! :)
Inspiring, succinct life lesson for any artist or craftswoman/craftsman. Thank you for giving this tough talk, with raw honesty, and experience to back it. Every college student should be required to hear this, and spend a day working with you. Thanks & God Bless You!
Another great video that states the basics that we all forget most of the time. It takes more than skill, to be great at what you do. It takes heart, the passion to want to succeed, heartache and heartbreak to make you want to succeed, and be great at whatever task you choose to undertake and own it. I believe that is how you become great at what you do, not just the end product you make but all of the steps and stumbles it took you to get to the end product. Thank you Ashley for making us all a little more humble in our work. Great video again!!!
I started turning at 15. I taught myself how to do the push cut using Ashley's videos as a guide. I'm currently 17 and looking for a job. I'm thinking about being an on call firefighter and using my free time to do wood turning as a second job. I've joined a local group with some great people and are helping me improve my skills all the time. But without Ashley, I would not have the skills and technique I have today.
Great presentation and encouragement about pursuing and attaining a craftsman level. The caution needed for the first 50 turnings start to drop away. At 500, you aren't even aware of how those early cautions are not even a conscious thought. You can put your attention to the fine points that you could not even try for the first couple hundred pieces. It took me 5 years to get good at cutting tile freehand so I was bold enough to cut right at the finished shape rather than grind, trim and sand to get that final dimension. I reduced the time to finish a job by 50% and greatly increased the quality of my result. Sure, I increased my profit but more importantly, I increased the frequency of being able to turn to look back at my work after I finish a job and start to walk away. That "One more gaze at the result before I turn out the lights." is beyond anything other than a customer's glow as they take possession of the piece of work. Great job.
Thank you Ashley I'm just starting out in woodworking I got into it cause I had an extreme amount of tragedy in my life over these last several years. This was a way that kept me from going dark an outlet if you will. I started accumulating tools over the last 2 years and now I just got my local business license and I can hardly wait to ramp this up. I too am an executive chef I still cook but I'm not in management anymore I don't want to go down that path anymore, like you as long as I'm working with my hands I'm happy. Thanks for inspiring me to move forward.
I took one of your beginner classes back in 2012. Before the pandemic hit, I was teaching wood turning at Brunswick Community College and still do occasional classes in Wilmington NC for WAWA.
it's so nice to hear your thoughts, I have a fine arts degree in woodworking, and one of the first things that one of my professors said to us, was that if you think that you're going to get rich being a crafts person you, should quit now. Craftsmanship is about taking the knowledge and techniques and perfecting them through practice. It starts with the foundations of woodworking, While I am not a turner I do respect that end of the craft as well. Why do I do the work I do, its about the journey and the creativity. Ashley you are 100% right, people don't get the hours and days that we have to put in to make the life that we have. But in the end when you show people your work and they tell you how amazing it is, All the effort in the creation is worth it. You have a gift, I enjoy seeing your work, keep at it.
The first 15 minutes is one of the best and most inspiring overall messages on the Internet. (Last 1:19 is commercial and aimed at a different audience.) Well done Ashley. It cuts to the chase and applies to every creative endeavor imaginable. This will be a classic (in that the message is timeless).
Thanks for sharing Ashley, some truly inspirational stuff. My 11yr old daughter is keen on wood turning, but as she has sensitive hearing she finds it hard to even watch me turn as she can't stand the noise, even sanding noise is an issue (doesn't help with the dust extractor). I personally, would love it if you shared more of your projects, but I also understand that commission work can't always be recorded, and that in particular your technique videos and classes are how you earn a living. I"m lucky to be in a position where I don't actually need to sell work to survive, and turning is more of a hobby, but I do agree that technique and practising good technique makes one better.
Ashley, you definitely have inspiration flowing! I am 70 years old ,moved my shop to Taos New Mexico, 2 1/2 years ago, and have worked more less everyday since. Everything you have said in your video is so true and inspiring. Keep up the good work!
That is awesome! I am so excited to hear that you are still creating and enjoyed this story. Starting a business at any age I think is one of the most rewarding and hardest things to do.
@@AshleyHarwood It has really been a Road Trip of life ! I grew up next door to Ev ert Sodergren an iconic 3rd generatinon Swedish cabinet m aker in the Pacific Northwest scene . He worked in his shop every single day till into his early nineties. But I chose the food path too ,and became a professional chef for the better part of 20 yrs. Had kids, changed it up ,and fell back to woodworking /remodeling ,allways with a shop at home. Got lucky in selling our house ,after 28 years of working on it and the shop , and building out restaurants, garnering clients from the cooking days. Taos is a beautiful place full of funk and artistic people . Just reinventing myself at 70! My daughter has 20 some thousand followers on IG called GhostingCarbs a keto site. We are going to collaborate on some products for her site. My trusty General lathe is rarin' to go
I enjoy watching your videos because I believe in every word you say. This particular video is so inspiring and true and I believe expressing yourself is one of your strongest talents. thank you for sharing your thoughts and your wood turning skills as well.
Hi, I just started following you. I forwarded this video to my daughter in-law who is just beginning to follow her passion in photography as a business. I've always told her she had a great eye and now needs to focus on technique. Your story here is so on point for her and anyone trying to pursue a career as a craftsperson. Thanks you...
Learning that Ashley plays the piano makes sense to how she speaks and why her words come to life. She speaks with a cadence and softness that keeps you engaged. Thank you for sharing exactly what it takes to be an artisan.
In many ways, I think this is your best video yet. A fulfilling life is always a worthy goal. Currently working on winterizing my new shop, so I can get it up and running (hopefully by the new year).
Definitely the best video of yours ever! You are obviously very dedicated and pay much attention to detail and put your heart into your work. I don't comment on videos much but this one just made me!
It is amazing how we don't think about the whole aspect of what it takes to be good at what we do. Thanks for putting it into words that people can see what it takes and be inspired by someone that has been there, I really like and enjoy where you are headed with these types of videos. I have only been turning for 8 month and these type of videos have helped more than you know. I am just now really getting ready to start selling what I make so far I think I have sold over 100 bowls for the first time I think I can make a business out of it. And now after this video I really want to thanks Ashley and happy turning. Jeff Goodson Bowls
I like your talk, I was inspired by the kind words you have to say about not stopping and continuing going on because it is not about how much money you can make but it's about your happiness. I don't know if can do woodworking, but I was told it is about learning and continuing to learn. The same words you mention
Thanks for the inspiring video. I started woodturning, when i was twelve years old, in basic school, in craft lessons. Then i turned from 1996-2002. I had always in my mind to go back to do things that i love. Now, seventeen years later i bought myself a lathe, and i am back in woodturning. My skills where like i did it yesterday (muscle memory). I do it as a hobby, but vision is to do it with full time and i think the most important thing is to do what you love to do and woodturning is my passion. If you do what you love to do and you can explain it to your customers, then they maybe get a point and value your turnings more than buying just a mass production things in shop. Every bowl or other handmade objects have their soul. As you have told in one of your videos "wood it is a living thing". And in the end i want to say, doing what you love is number one, and money comes in second. Greetings from Estonia. Wish you best of all.
Ashley, thank you for sharing this video. I wish I had started turning many years ago. I am a 70 year old retired pastor. I realize I will probably never be as good as you are, but I will continue to turn and try to reach a higher state of excellence. I love your videos and the beautiful work you are doing.
Ashley, this video could be a TED talk. The quality of the message was that good.
The laithe and band saw are the only machines missing in my shop. After watching one of your videos, I said that not having the tools was not an excuse, so I chucked a jig into my drill mounted the drill so it was stable, and started to turn my own spindles for my deck. Of course, I will never be as successful as a craftsman, as I am missing the most important part. One incredibly beautiful smile that is full of love. Your channel and Culver Propellers are my favorite craftsman channels.
Someone once asked me “you hardly make any money at this why do you keep going at it”
My reply was
“why do you breathe”
I guess it’s in your blood and when you deliver your product to the customer and you see how happy you just made them.. well you cannot put a price on that. I just really like making people happy that’s not a crime it’s a gift.
Thank you so much for your videos I’m also a woodworker with knowledge passed down from my father and at 56 I’m still learning.
Never stop ❤️
EXACTLY! a life lived for art is never a life wasted
Those people don’t understand the enjoyment of the process of making something, or the satisfaction of completion and then improvement.
This video should be required watching for everyone who wants to make crafts as a career and not just a hobby.
This video should be required watching. Period!!!
I’m 75, my first turning experience was in 7th grade shop class. I went on to a top business school, a corporate career and dabbled at turning. I have no aspirations of earning an income. I just want to perfect my technique so I am proud of the work. Regardless of all those comments, this is a terrific video. Thank you
Love your work but I love your attitude and caring toward others even more. Thanks for your example.
I'm a woodworker(high end furniture) and there's always some blood, sweat and tears in every piece I make. You're an inspiration to people who don't have a knack for wood turning!
While trying my utmost to stay positive and be as polite as possible, I'm really struggling to try and imagine how utterly sad the lives of the 30 people who've given this video a thumbs down must be. Not sure where you find solace but I truly hope that you do.
Having lived in Charleston for a year and a half, giving up A/C is definitely a sacrifice. Thank you for the message Ashley. It really does mean a lot, and may be more powerful than you realize.
Learning? That is more truth than poetry. I spent most of my life in maintenance, that is different everyday and the learning curve is never ending. I retired a few years back, but now I explain to those who are interested in how to do as many things as the 2 of us can do, as well as learn from those other persons. You definitely hit the nail on the head with this video. Great job young lady, keep it up.
I am a shop teacher in training. In my part of the world, we go to shop teacher school where we learn basic woodworking, electronics, automotive, engineering, metalwork, welding and other trade related skills that we are to teach high school students. Woodturning is my latest RUclips binge at the moment. Watching you turn that Barolo table is nothing short of amazing! Also, I just purchased a small lathe to start practicing my technique at home so I can better teach my future students. Thanks for reminding me about repetition and giving myself the space to get the technique right.
Well said. Having just started turning at 73 I was struggling even with youtube. Took me about 6 months to figure out I just needed to start with the basics and practice. It only took me watching about 15 different teachers on youtube saying the same things till it finally sunk in. I bought a good grinder and diamond wheel, then some sharpening aids and then after watching for about riding the bevel a hundred times.... one day I actually accomplished it......... WOW!
Now I actually see progress each time in the shop..... and screw up a lot of stuff but I'm now to the point of understanding how I "got that catch". It's very rewarding. I now go to my local bar and "show and tell" all my screw ups!
Keep it up, you are doing great work spreading the knowledge.
I am 70 years young. Retired and disabled. I can not just sit around, so I started carving some time ago, Now for the past
year I have bought a mini lathe and the journey begins. I watch all your videos I can find and learn from them.
I would hope that someday I could take your classes.
Ashley, Thanks for the fresh insight into craftsmanship. I have almost never sold my work, only gave it away. The few times I did it for profit. My passion for woodworking seemed like a job. As I get closer to retiring from working for someone else. I find I am enjoying the challenge of selling my crafts. It's no longer the feeling of a job, but more of a challenge to produce a piece of art worthy of great conversations. Keep turning and talking.
Out of all your videos I have watched, this one has had the most impact on my self image as a woodworker/turner/maker. You have inspired me to a higher level of desire to learn my craft. I thank you and look forward to seeing more videos of your work and travels.
I just want to start and say this hit me hard, but hard in a way that was positive. I am new to wood turning and only been turning for a year. I have always worked with my hands in some way or another, but never had the satisfaction I get when I turn. I have this urge inside of me to create and have always been told you won't make a living at it. I have struggled lately with this. Making things for other people brings me such joy. I have struggled lately making mistakes messing up on simple things. I have struggled on selling my projects consistently and for a price that represents my time and work that goes into my projects. I have never worked for something I want in life. I have always tried to please everyone around me. For once I have found what makes me happy. So I guess what I am trying to say is THANK YOU....... I needed to hear this from someone like you..
Your work isn’t as a much a reflection of how the thousands of hours at the lathe have improved your technical abilities, as it is a reflection of how much you have grown as an individual and a piece created by Ashley Harwood is a work of art, infinitely more valuable than one sold in the big box stores.
After four decades in business there are a few fundamental truths I have come to (not because of me but because they are just facts..).
If it is not a viable business, it's a hobby.
The person signing the front of the check make the rules.
The craft will never be as hard as the business.
It doesn't take motivation, it takes dedication.
What an outstanding talk Ashley, you have covered these facts of life so well. Such a joy to hear.
I am super impressed with the craftsmanship that you demonstrate. I live in the UK and I am not a wood turner myself, but I love seeing the art that is created from a ‘lump’ of wood. You clearly have the skills, which combined with your passion for teaching make your videos a delightful way to expand knowledge. Keep that smile going too, it’s wonderful.
The reason why I follow craftsman like you is because of the hardwork and dedication paid to your craft. These are things I would like to eventually do as a hobby, but I don't have that same desire to put in the 12 hour days, nor the desire to give up a really good steady pay check. But these are things that I can admit about myself and not take away from the hard work of others. I hate when I see others commenting that it was just luck, or I could do that if I were given this that or the other. Maybe there was some luck involved, but that luck only comes into play after putting in the hardwork. And the items that were given only helped to get you further along only after putting in the work to get to that point. I think a lot of people are unhappy with their lives and respond by trying to tear others down. That's why when I leave a comment it is either to show appreciation or constructive criticism or maybe a different perspective.
Ashley - When I retired a few years ago I started watching RUclips and Instagram in lieu of television. Your videos were one of the first I viewed and was immediately intrigued by your dedication and commitment to the craft. Now that I know your story you have my utmost respect. Thank you for keeping both the arts and the industry alive and giving young people a common knowledge of what to expect. Witnessing your experiences is the best way to get you message to the masses! Keep up the great work and keep the videos coming if you can!
I attended your demo in Raleigh, NC and saw you demo for the first time, live. Loved all of it. This video of what it takes to do this full-time, is also spot-on. Clear, concise, down-to-earth, not afraid to share that you are human, which makes your message heartfelt and believable. As a female who has spent her entire adult life in male-dominated professions and hobbies, I have lived some of those experiences you described. Keep speaking your message, there are a lot of young people who need to hear it.
Excellent message. Because of an unexpected change in my health, I was forced to retire early from the only profession I've ever known or loved. Woodworking has always been an enjoyable hobby, but now I am looking at it more as something to maintain both my sanity and to give me direction again as my wife and I go forward in this new normal. Thank you for the clarity and honesty you provide in this presentation.
Beautifully spoken and wonderfully inspirational If any of you have an inspiring young artist whom you plan to have watch this video, ( and you should) be sure to not gloss over Ashley's statement, " One big regret of mine is that I never took any business classes in college." It will help shorten the learning curve immensely and avoid some to the inherent pitfalls along the journey.
The most important thing about having a trade is knowing everything you make is a message that you will make people think about good things.
Hi Ashley I love your work & video's I have never done woodturning but due to me having to retire early due to a hit & run on my motorbike I had to find something to help me in my recovery so I watched youtube & saw woodturning so I bought a second-hand mini Jet machine had to do a bit of work to get it running smoothly plus secondhand chisels & tried it & now I love it it has helped me to forget my pain for a while so thank you all woodturners on RUclips making & sharing your work & advice.
Regards
Steve UK London
My first , and only turning was made in high school woodshop in the late 50's. I made a lamp from a bowling pin which I gave to my son a few years ago but I never had the equipment to do more...till now. I am finally getting set up to do the wood turning that I enjoyed in high school I am Inspired to do much more because of you and others I have seen on RUclips. I don't plan on making a business from it but I will practice to become better every day. Thanks for your inspiration and example. It's never too late to do something again only do it better.
My craft mentor is a master cabinet maker and you touched on SOOO many of the lessons he imparts to me!!! thank you for presenting this without bopping me in the head 🙂
All of this applies across the board in life and parallels directly into martial arts! Practicing the motions slowly and perfectly is far more important than practicing the motions with full force.
Love how the southern slips through from time to time.
Ashley, thank you for your videos, my wife a I watch them and look forward to them. We strive to improve with every project and have been making family Christmas gifts for several years. You inspire us, thanks again!
Ashley, I have watched all of your videos and so far I found this video is the best one . You looked relaxed and was very informative. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much Ashley . I am working on a "shadow box" coffee table . I have spent all summer working on it , questions came up in the design, issues that I had to address on the fly. I work as flooring installer with my brother for a "surviving job" . To keep a long story short , I have been restless with not moving my creativity in the direction I want .The direction of a self sustaining business. I love every aspect of wood working , from carving to turning to making furniture; I even get into the cutting down and milling of my own timber, more to do than I have life in me I am afraid.
This video was a good way to tell me to "do your business or get off the pot ". Well , your words of wisdom hit home . your way more talented than you let on. your a beautiful person Ashley. thanks for letting us into your life through the "miracle" of RUclips.
Keep the inspiration coming , I know I need it . Bless you lady
Such a great treatise on craft and crafting. She eloquently covers process and product in her usual, pleasant delivery. I'm reminded of a Wendell Berry line - her hands know as much as her head.
The thing you say at 4:15 was key decision. You can buy anything from ‘offshore’ these days, and so much stuff out there is bought by the container load then passed off at markets as hand made or folk art etc. Proof that you did this was important, glad you did it.
Excellent information with no sugar coating. This is something all those people offering a true craftsman 1/2 the asking price for a product should watch! All their time and practice and effort are truly worth something.
Even as a beginner woodturner I really enjoy your videos.....I'll never turn most of the things you do, but I certainly admire your talent, artistic vision, how you seem to have a soft or gentle touch with your tools and most of all, your humbleness.
Take care and keep inspiring!
I am an armature woodtourner from Italy and i really loved everything you just said.
You are an incredibile woman and a superbe artist.
Bravissima 👏
That was an amazing and very well thought out video. You hit the nail right on, woodworking is a passion, and it shows in your work.
I have also loved working with wood since I was very young. Now when I do a craft show, the look on someone's face when they say something like "You made that out of a log you found on the side of the road?" I still get that wonderful feeling of satisfaction. Thanks again for your videos. Very inspiring to achieve the name of "Craftperson."
Ashley, you seem to be a natural in front of the camera. I sell my turnings in a gallery, and truly enjoy woodworking in general. Your journey and progression are inspiring!
Thanks for the pep talk and keeping it real Ashley. Nothing worth pursuing happens overnight and you spell it all out here beautifully. There is very little luck involved, just hard work, practicing the right things, and having that drive to know you have a goal... but the journey should be enjoyed.
I'm a metal sculpture person that came across you on Instagram. I don't have the desire for wood turning but love and admire your talents. Thank you for this video. Very relevant!
Ashley very well done. I have been at it for 30 plus years and work every day, 7 days a week...and I still love it. I think I am very fortunate to make a living as a crafts person, it is a gift. Keep turning!!
You are an inspiration, I teach at a college in ontario, and will pass on these words of wisdom to my carpentry students. Love to see women excel in the trades. Thanks for being awesome!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and frankness. I started turning just a few months ago after watching YT videos for three years. You were an inspiration along with many others.
I've always been good at working with my hands plus I've got perfectionist tendencies so my work has already received praise. Several have told me I should sell my work but I don't want to make this a business because I want to remain fun. Trying to pay the mortgage, keep the lights on and food in the cupboards by making wooden bowls is too steep a mountain to climb. I have sold a few things and I'm not opposed to earning a few $$$'s along the way (still need a bandsaw LOL) but I'll keep my day job. I hope to take one of your classes next year so i can improve my skill set.
Stuart
One of the best woodturning videos I have seen.
I've spent 30 plus years perfecting my craft. You are spot on in many things you have pointed out in this video. Thanks for sharing and keep up the GREAT work!
You are an inspiration. As Jim Sprague says: be proud of your work and sign it.
This was by far the best from the heart video concerning choosing woodworking as a possible career. I echo many of your statements in the video. After 42 years I look back at the early days just starting out, the mistakes and the sacrifices I made. A big Powermatic Bandsaw over Car AC. Bandsaw wins everytime! You inspired me over the past few months to buy a new Laguna 1836 (An upgrade from my Jet Midi Lathe), chucks, tool rests, better bowl gouges etc. A host of other items I see you use. I figured heck if she can get good so can I, at least I hope so. Turning pens and other small things are okay, but look out bowl turning. Richard Raffin was who I have looked up to over the past 25 years, now I look up to you! This video was long overdue, Thank You!
You have gust turned a light on in my head. In my work it is not the product but the reflection of the joy and love embedded with in every piece a one off or 50. Thankyou
Ron
The information you share is very meaningful and useful. Thank you!
Wow...Ashley this was an inspiring talk. I have watched every single RUclips video since you started and this one is by far the most captivating and thought provoking video you have produced. Even though there was no teaching, training, demonstrating or how to’s, it is precisely the reason I thoroughly enjoy and appreciate the effort you put into your videos. I’m mostly retired and love to tinker in my wood ‘play shop’ and wood turning is a passion. You are a treasure to watch and listen to, keep up the great work. Cheers from Alberta, Canada.
Thank you so much for taking the time to do this video. I turn pens and find myself wanting to expand on my turning. I really want to learn to turn bowls. My wife went out and bought me a 1/2 inch bowl gouge and bowl scraper made by cryogenic. Been watching videos of you and Stuart Batty I learn best by watching if I watch someone do something I can do it. I refuse to to turn anything until I learn how to do it even though having the tools really makes me want to thanks again for the videos you make very much appreciated and have a blessed day and life
Wow, someone that really gets it. What it means to be a real craftsman and what it takes. I'm so impressed Ashley. By you as a craftsman and as a businessperson. I want to take your class one day. At 60 years old, retired Army, retired Carpenter, and wood carver. My next leg is wood turner. I hope to meet you soon
This video is from your heart. From the heart of a father of four and grandfather of eleven....thank you!
So generously shared, Ashley. You have covered in less than 20 minutes the sage skill set and dedication most people take a lifetime of hard knocks to learn and then they still need to add the business skills. I have had the privilege of spending my working life in the greenhouse farming world and now as I reach into my 60s I have taken to bowl turning as an aside. Your current video is invaluable as a learning tool set in any career. To end off, as a farmer I fully understand your having to master many skills and your having to wire your shop had me smiling in deep understanding. Well done and thank you, so many reminders for me in 16+ minutes.
Ash - Great educational tour of your career path and growing your businesses. Congrats on who you’ve become. I have 14 yo triplet daughters (and two older sons) and all of them will be asked to watch this video. I try to expose them to inspirational leaders who have and are enduring in life by pursuing their passions. You say you wish you took a business class - as a person who has multiple business degrees, have confidence that you are so far beyond the lessons learned in the best business schools. They have something to learn from you. Pls keep up the amazing craftwork and teachings.
There's a calming effect to you and the crafts you produce, don't ever stop.
Good to know about the classes 😊
Thank you for a great talk Ashley. I've been following you since you first appeared on RUclips and realise that you have put so much work into your craft that you are now at the top of the tree. I've been turning for the last eight years and when I happen across some of my early work I cringe so I've come a long way but am still not where I want to be. However, I'm determined to get there. About a month ago an acquaintance told me he had started turning. I invited him in twice for one hour sessions and on both occasions we emerged three hours later covered in shavings. I can't believe I'm now teaching someone and my "student" is coming along fine. In our last session we turned a zebra wood bowl and my friend went through the bottom. He was horrified but i reassured him that I'd done that several times but there was a way out of it. I turned a little ebony plug to fit neatly in the hole and advised him to tell his friends that the felt the stripes in the wood were a bit overpowering so had decided to break it up by placing an ornamental piece of ebony in the bottom. By the way, I think more of my lathe than I do for my car.
We love you Ashley you are a true inspiration for many people on this planet 🥰😭
Thank you Ashley, not only for the great woodturning videos, but also for the great advice. You have transcended craftmenship to become an artist of true note. Keep it up and thanks again for sharing.
I'm an accountant and have always told people setting up in business that they will have two jobs. One is what they do, plumber, electrician, mechanic or wood turner, for example, and the other is running their business. Once they've done their first job they have to do the second. Paying bills, dealing with payroll, juggling money, planning the next job, ordering materials, marketing, budgeting, paying taxes etc etc is at least as big a job as what they do. Most people don't much like their second job but it's important and has to be done. Well done you for doing so well and I hope you continue to succeed.
Well I really appreciate that you sharing this story of you. I have to say, yes you are right. It's all about repeating things to get more comfortable with the work, the own body during work and to kinda build reflexes for start working on for example on the lathe. That you are able to feel how to grab and hold the tool, but also what you have to check, before you start to work or between different steps of work.
Building up skills is a long way, but i think, no amount of money can you give the feeling of being proud and confidence, when you've made something with your own hands. This feeling increases incredible, when other people would like to buy these products and worship you work. When i sold one of my first items on a market to a little girl and she was so proud of having this handcrafted leaf neclace and started to presenting it to other people... it meant the world to me. Nobody can reach these feeling with money. It's just amazing.
I love your videos, they give me more than just informations and inspiration.
What I've seen especially in this video was the wooden jewellery. Maybe you can tell and show us some creation process of these pieces as well. I do wooden jewellery as well, but more simple carvings, today I saw these beautiful necklaces and I really would love to know how you did it.
Please go one and follow your way. Lovely greetings from Dresden in Germany.
Thank you for sharing this with us. I really enjoyed it and it spoke to me. As someone for whom woodworking is a hobby; I mostly make pieces for myself and friends and the occasional side project in order to pay for my woodworking habit I have to re-examine my approach to woodworking. I have it too much in my mind to quickly finish a project in order to get to the next one and I need to adjust that thinking. It causes me to get impatient and rush a project. We all know how that works out. I appreciate your channel and will keep tuning in.
My wife and I are going to make 2021 our year by starting a business for our crafts. This video on craftsmanship is so very timely and directly what we are trying to capture. Seriously, your efforts and craftsmanship are so awesome! Thanks so very very much for sharing!!!!
This is an excellent address of something that often goes unspoken in the pursuit of skill. I do joinery as a hobby, and the box is an important basic form that many start with. Dovetailed corners with a rabbet for a slide top lid, and a rabbet for the bottom. You are going to make a lot of boxes, and I've made a lot of boxes, and will make a lot more boxes. It was while doing this that I realized, truly realized, the lesson Mr Miyagi was teaching Daniel with 'wax-on wax-off'. In repetition of the form at its simplest, that is where you begin to build competency, and from competency you can progress towards skill. Whether you are making a bed frame, a chest of drawers, or a table. The final piece of furniture is derived from the same basic practiced forms, but at different scales and in a different combination.
Very positive, authentic and real message. Much appreciated. "You get good at what you practice.......good or bad" so it makes sense to learn how to practice progress not perfection. Thanks for this.
Most inspiring motivational talk I have ever heard Ashley. As a aspiring 73 year old wood carver this old man needed to hear that. On to farmers market! Thank you! ❤️
It is so satisfying to make something tangible with your hands and to see improvement in the end product is even more satisfying.
Thank you Miss Ashley! You speak words of wisdom that ring so true. I’ve been a woodworker for nearly 70 years and realize that never a day goes by when there isn’t something new to learn. We’re never too old. Good Craftsmanship is indeed a quest we all strive for and as you say, it takes a lot of work. Keep up your great work and stay healthy.
Thank you. I'm just a hobby wood worker. But your words resonate strongly with me. Both for my hobby, but also for my career craft as a software engineer.
You are very welcome
Ashley, thank you so much for sharing this video, such great value in your advice. You have so much talent in so many ways (including the piano) You have inspired me to take the plunge & work for my self doing something I love to do. Thanks again, take care.
There is so much to making a living with your own business that others never realize. I think only a very few craft people can make a profit at it, let alone a living. Thank you for sharing .
Ashley,
The message you give in this video has spoken volumes to me. I’ve been in manufacturing and logistics for 17 years and recently decided earlier this year that I want to make woodturning my new career. You speak from the heart of a genuine professional who knows her craft inside and out, and what it truly takes to make any kind of viable income from it. I cannot express how thankful I am for your outpouring of knowledge to world of aspiring woodworkers. I look forward to taking your classes one day so I can inhale that knowledge and work side-by-side with the Queen of Woodturning!
Look into variable speed, swivel head lathe.
@@AM-fo1jp You don't understand. I've been turning for nearly a year already. Own a Laguna and have a small shop. It’s because I’ve been turning for nearly a year that I’ve decided to make it a career. Have an absolute passion for it.
I just started wood turning you , Nick from UK, and Ben works from Australia really thought me well I watch y'all and take it all in thanks for taking the time
A well thought out lesson of an artist life. Very well presented!
Thank you so much! I feel so fortunate to be able to share my story and have a community behind me that supports me !
A great talk, Ashley! The satisfaction of making things is wonderful. The satisfaction of people Wanting the things you make is sublime! I brought our granddaughter in to my shop before she went to college this year and together we made a corkboard/magnetic chalkboard communication center. She ran tools without flinching and I bragged about her to all of my coworkers!! Hopefully, she will create things on her own someday! :)
Inspiring, succinct life lesson for any artist or craftswoman/craftsman. Thank you for giving this tough talk, with raw honesty, and experience to back it. Every college student should be required to hear this, and spend a day working with you. Thanks & God Bless You!
Another great video that states the basics that we all forget most of the time. It takes more than skill, to be great at what you do. It takes heart, the passion to want to succeed, heartache and heartbreak to make you want to succeed, and be great at whatever task you choose to undertake and own it. I believe that is how you become great at what you do, not just the end product you make but all of the steps and stumbles it took you to get to the end product. Thank you Ashley for making us all a little more humble in our work. Great video again!!!
I started turning at 15.
I taught myself how to do the push cut using Ashley's videos as a guide.
I'm currently 17 and looking for a job.
I'm thinking about being an on call firefighter and using my free time to do wood turning as a second job.
I've joined a local group with some great people and are helping me improve my skills all the time.
But without Ashley, I would not have the skills and technique I have today.
Great presentation and encouragement about pursuing and attaining a craftsman level. The caution needed for the first 50 turnings start to drop away. At 500, you aren't even aware of how those early cautions are not even a conscious thought. You can put your attention to the fine points that you could not even try for the first couple hundred pieces.
It took me 5 years to get good at cutting tile freehand so I was bold enough to cut right at the finished shape rather than grind, trim and sand to get that final dimension. I reduced the time to finish a job by 50% and greatly increased the quality of my result. Sure, I increased my profit but more importantly, I increased the frequency of being able to turn to look back at my work after I finish a job and start to walk away.
That "One more gaze at the result before I turn out the lights." is beyond anything other than a customer's glow as they take possession of the piece of work.
Great job.
Thank you Ashley I'm just starting out in woodworking I got into it cause I had an extreme amount of tragedy in my life over these last several years. This was a way that kept me from going dark an outlet if you will. I started accumulating tools over the last 2 years and now I just got my local business license and I can hardly wait to ramp this up. I too am an executive chef I still cook but I'm not in management anymore I don't want to go down that path anymore, like you as long as I'm working with my hands I'm happy. Thanks for inspiring me to move forward.
You are an absolute inspiration......at present I can only sit in my shop and look at my tools and wood....had a rotator cuff operation......
I took one of your beginner classes back in 2012. Before the pandemic hit, I was teaching wood turning at Brunswick Community College and still do occasional classes in Wilmington NC for WAWA.
Thanks Ashley. Your channel is my new favourite. I’m a hobbyist making some simple stuff like honey dippers and dough pins.
Fantastic video; you and Alec Steele have so much the right attitude. Inspirational
This is excellent! Finally getting into my new woodshop space and can't wait to start back turning!
I’m a filmmaker and I do woodworking as well because I like creating with my hands. You’re a bright spot in the world Ashley. Thank you!
it's so nice to hear your thoughts, I have a fine arts degree in woodworking, and one of the first things that one of my professors said to us, was that if you think that you're going to get rich being a crafts person you, should quit now. Craftsmanship is about taking the knowledge and techniques and perfecting them through practice. It starts with the foundations of woodworking, While I am not a turner I do respect that end of the craft as well. Why do I do the work I do, its about the journey and the creativity. Ashley you are 100% right, people don't get the hours and days that we have to put in to make the life that we have. But in the end when you show people your work and they tell you how amazing it is, All the effort in the creation is worth it. You have a gift, I enjoy seeing your work, keep at it.
The first 15 minutes is one of the best and most inspiring overall messages on the Internet. (Last 1:19 is commercial and aimed at a different audience.) Well done Ashley. It cuts to the chase and applies to every creative endeavor imaginable.
This will be a classic (in that the message is timeless).
Thanks for sharing Ashley, some truly inspirational stuff. My 11yr old daughter is keen on wood turning, but as she has sensitive hearing she finds it hard to even watch me turn as she can't stand the noise, even sanding noise is an issue (doesn't help with the dust extractor). I personally, would love it if you shared more of your projects, but I also understand that commission work can't always be recorded, and that in particular your technique videos and classes are how you earn a living. I"m lucky to be in a position where I don't actually need to sell work to survive, and turning is more of a hobby, but I do agree that technique and practising good technique makes one better.
Ashley, you definitely have inspiration flowing! I am 70 years old ,moved my shop to Taos New Mexico, 2 1/2 years ago, and have worked more less everyday since. Everything you have said in your video is so true and inspiring. Keep up the good work!
That is awesome! I am so excited to hear that you are still creating and enjoyed this story. Starting a business at any age I think is one of the most rewarding and hardest things to do.
@@AshleyHarwood It has really been a Road Trip of life ! I grew up next door to Ev ert Sodergren an iconic 3rd generatinon Swedish cabinet m aker in the Pacific Northwest scene . He worked in his shop every single day till into his early nineties. But I chose the food path too ,and became a professional chef for the better part of 20 yrs. Had kids, changed it up ,and fell back to woodworking /remodeling ,allways with a shop at home. Got lucky in selling our house ,after 28 years of working on it and the shop , and building out restaurants, garnering clients from the cooking days. Taos is a beautiful place full of funk and artistic people . Just reinventing myself at 70! My daughter has 20 some thousand followers on IG called GhostingCarbs a keto site. We are going to collaborate on some products for her site. My trusty General lathe is rarin' to go
Another wonderful video Ashley. I especially liked your story about the executive chef, brought a big smile to my face.
I enjoy watching your videos because I believe in every word you say. This particular video is so inspiring and true and I believe expressing yourself is one of your strongest talents. thank you for sharing your thoughts and your wood turning skills as well.
Hi, I just started following you. I forwarded this video to my daughter in-law who is just beginning to follow her passion in photography as a business. I've always told her she had a great eye and now needs to focus on technique. Your story here is so on point for her and anyone trying to pursue a career as a craftsperson. Thanks you...
Learning that Ashley plays the piano makes sense to how she speaks and why her words come to life. She speaks with a cadence and softness that keeps you engaged. Thank you for sharing exactly what it takes to be an artisan.
In many ways, I think this is your best video yet. A fulfilling life is always a worthy goal. Currently working on winterizing my new shop, so I can get it up and running (hopefully by the new year).
Definitely the best video of yours ever! You are obviously very dedicated and pay much attention to detail and put your heart into your work. I don't comment on videos much but this one just made me!
It is amazing how we don't think about the whole aspect of what it takes to be good at what we do. Thanks for putting it into words that people can see what it takes and be inspired by someone that has been there, I really like and enjoy where you are headed with these types of videos. I have only been turning for 8 month and these type of videos have helped more than you know. I am just now really getting ready to start selling what I make so far I think I have sold over 100 bowls for the first time I think I can make a business out of it. And now after this video I really want to thanks Ashley and happy turning. Jeff Goodson Bowls
You’re one of the main reasons I bought a lathe and have fallen in love with turning. Thanks for all your videos and tips! Keep up the great work!
I like your talk, I was inspired by the kind words you have to say about not stopping and continuing going on because it is not about how much money you can make but it's about your happiness. I don't know if can do woodworking, but I was told it is about learning and continuing to learn. The same words you mention
Thanks for the inspiring video. I started woodturning, when i was twelve years old, in basic school, in craft lessons. Then i turned from 1996-2002. I had always in my mind to go back to do things that i love. Now, seventeen years later i bought myself a lathe, and i am back in woodturning. My skills where like i did it yesterday (muscle memory). I do it as a hobby, but vision is to do it with full time and i think the most important thing is to do what you love to do and woodturning is my passion. If you do what you love to do and you can explain it to your customers, then they maybe get a point and value your turnings more than buying just a mass production things in shop. Every bowl or other handmade objects have their soul. As you have told in one of your videos "wood it is a living thing". And in the end i want to say, doing what you love is number one, and money comes in second. Greetings from Estonia. Wish you best of all.
Ashley, thank you for sharing this video. I wish I had started turning many years ago. I am a 70 year old retired pastor. I realize I will probably never be as good as you are, but I will continue to turn and try to reach a higher state of excellence. I love your videos and the beautiful work you are doing.