At Spencer Peterman, we transform locally and sustainably sourced wood into exquisite hand-turned wooden bowls. This artisanal process, deeply rooted in tradition and history, yields unparalleled results that set Spencer Peterman apart in the realm of wooden craftsmanship.

In this post we will explore both the history and process of hand-turning wooden bowls.

The Rich History of Hand-Turned Wooden Bowls

The art of hand-turning wooden bowls has a storied history that spans across centuries and continents. To truly appreciate this ancient craft, let’s delve into the origins of the lathe. We’ll also explore the cultures that embraced bowl turning, and the types of wood that have been historically used in this remarkable practice. 

The Invention of the Lathe

The lathe, a cornerstone of the hand-turning process, has a fascinating history. Its invention traces back to ancient civilizations. The earliest known lathes dating as far back as ancient Egypt around 1300 BC. The Egyptians used a two-person lathe operated by a bow. This design laid the foundation for the lathe’s evolution over the centuries.

However, it was during the Roman Empire that the lathe underwent significant improvements. The Romans introduced a foot-powered rotary lathe, a revolutionary development that allowed for greater precision and control in shaping wood. This innovation marked a pivotal moment in the history of woodworking, shaping the future of hand-turning.

Cultures Embracing Hand-Turned Wooden Bowls

Throughout history, various cultures have embraced the art of turning wooden bowls on lathes. The skill and techniques associated with bowl turning have transcended borders and time periods, contributing to the diverse and rich tapestry of craftsmanship around the world.

Ancient China:

In ancient China, the lathe played a crucial role in woodworking. Chinese artisans mastered the art of turning bowls on pole lathes, utilizing their expertise to create intricately designed vessels with cultural significance.

Medieval Europe:

During the Middle Ages, the lathe became an indispensable tool in European woodworking. Craftsmen in medieval Europe refined the lathe design, enhancing its capabilities and enabling the creation of finely turned wooden bowls that adorned homes and tables.

Traditional African Woodworking:

Across the African continent, indigenous communities have long employed lathes to turn bowls and other functional items. The use of lathes in Africa reflects the deep connection between craftsmanship and daily life, with each bowl bearing the imprint of cultural identity.

Historically Used Woods

The types of wood historically used for turning bowls have varied based on geographic regions, availability, and cultural preferences. Different woods impart distinct characteristics to the bowls, influencing their appearance, durability, and functionality.

Throughout history, hardwoods such as oak, walnut, cherry, and maple have been favored for bowl turning. These woods are prized for their density, fine grain, and ability to withstand the rigors of turning and finishing processes.

In some cultures, artisans turned to woods like teak, mahogany, and rosewood for their unique colors and patterns. These woods not only showcased the craftsman’s skill but also added a touch of luxury to the finished bowls.

In regions where hardwoods were scarce, craftsmen turned to softwoods like pine and cedar. While softer in nature, these woods were readily available and allowed artisans to create more accessible and utilitarian bowls.

The Hand-Turned Wooden Bowl Process Unveiled

Spencer Peterman’s commitment to preserving tradition is evident in our hand-turning process. Let’s delve into the various stages that bring a piece of wood to life, turning it into a Spencer Peterman hand-turned wooden bowl.

Selection of Wood:

The journey begins with the careful selection of wood. This process involves an intimate understanding of the characteristics and nuances of different tree species present in New England. 

All of the wood we use at Spencer Peterman is locally and sustainably sourced. Most of the logs we use come from local tree services and would otherwise by chipped, burned, or tossed. In particular, we love working with rare and unique wood types that will contribute to the uniqueness of each bowl.

Some of our favorite materials to work with are ambrosia maple, spalted maple, and burl wood.

Hand-Turning Wooden Bowls on the Lathe:

With the prepared wood securely mounted on the lathe, we begin the hand-turning process. Guided by skill and intuition, we shape the wood into a bowl, allowing the lathe’s rotation to reveal the natural beauty concealed within. 

Unlike mechanized processes, hand-turning creates a deeper connection with the material, as each cut is a deliberate act of craftsmanship. In an era dominated by modern technologies, the hand-turning process stands as a homage to woodworking’s rich history. While machines offer efficiency, they lack the soul and individuality present in hand-turned wooden bowls. The touch of a skilled artisan and the nuances of the hand-turning process contribute to the uniqueness of each Spencer Peterman creation.

Finishing Touches:

Once the bowl takes shape, it undergoes a series of finishing touches that enhance its aesthetic appeal and durability. 

First, our bowls are dried to 6% humidity. After that, we sand them down to a fine, smooth finish and the bottom of each bowl is sanded down to a flat surface.

For the final touch, we finish and seal each bowl with all natural, 100% food safe products. These could include tung oil, shellac, mineral oil, walnut oil, carnauba wax, milk paint, or vinegar.

The result of all this work is a hand-turned wooden bowl that not only serves its practical purpose but also stands as a testament to our artisans’ skill and dedication.

Embracing Tradition for Modern Elegance

Spencer Peterman’s commitment to the hand-turning process symbolizes a dedication to preserving the artistry and tradition of crafting wooden bowls. Each creation is not just a functional item but a work of art that tells a story – a story of the wood’s journey from forest to finished masterpiece.

By choosing Spencer Peterman’s hand-turned wooden bowls, customers not only acquire a functional piece for their homes but also support a small business deeply rooted in local craftsmanship and sustainable practices. 

In conclusion, the hand-turning process turns wooden bowls into timeless pieces that celebrate the beauty of nature and the rich history of craftsmanship. As the world embraces sustainability and authenticity, these hand-turned wooden bowls exemplify the perfect marriage of tradition and modern elegance.

At Spencer Peterman, every bowl we create is a unique masterpiece, a testament to the enduring artistry of hand-turned wooden craftsmanship. You can see the full collection of our hand-turned wooden bowls here.