Woodspin Studio

Mission

The mission of Woodspin studio and Bill Dotten is to create objects on the lathe which show care,  and sensitivity to the wood. The objects should hit a resonance with the spirit of the maker and those who aquire the pieces.

The process of producing this work should be passed on to a new generation with reverence for the medium.

Hand made production is a sensitive process. It begins with an understanding of the trees tissues and how the move and behave. The knowledge is then used to plan how to display the natural beauty of the wood within as the object is created.  An attempt should always be made to work with the woods natural tendencies to alter shape or appearance rather than to force it into submission.

It is with a desire to pass these attitudes and methods to those with the appropriate spirit that a school of woodturning has been established. 

 

About Us

     We produce a variety of wooden articles principally from the lathe both simple,classic, and with embellishment .

     The bulk of our trade comes from the making of bowls of all sizes and from many species of trees. Most are purely decorative, however our bowls can be pressed into daily service with proper care. We also make hollow forms such as vases, cremation urns, twig pots and others. 

     In addition to the beauty and utilitarian flow of lines we practice pyrography, texturing, dyeing, metal foiling, faux painting, and airbrushing to compliment the form.

     We have some supply of spalted, ambrosia, figured, crotch and burl woods for turning    

     Our studio is Nestled in a valley in a coal mining community in the Appalachian mountains of Virginia and surrounded by a national forest.  We have access to some of the most beautiful woods available right here at home.  It is our priviledge to work with  majestic trees and try to produce objects which reveal their beauty and spirit.

     If we have nothing in stock to suit you we will work with you to supply your desires.  It may be that you want a bowl made from a tree or timber from a family property, Or you may want us to obtain an exotic wood to create your article. We will do all that we can to fill your need  

In April 2008 the newly reorganized studio begins to accept students for workshops, demonstrations, and full curriculems.- 

 

Company history   As a young boy Bill helped his father fabricate "Billy Boy Build-it Kits". From that experience he has had a lifelong  love of wood. Bill bought his first lathe about 40 years ago and while he did woodwork and built furniture and cabinets for years he always returned to his fascination with the lathe. In the 3 years before retiring as a pharmacist Bill built the studio and  began to develop a woodturning business. He specializes now in turning, teaching, demonstrating  and speaking to woodturning groups.

Driving directions from tricities Tn. 

Get on Rt 23 north, enter Virginia and follow Rt 23 to milepost 43 and prepare to switch to exit ramp.
Go right at bottom of exit ramp and stay on 58A away from Norton toward Coeburn Va.
Go 7 ½ miles to a stoplight. (only one at Coeburn)
Turn right and go straight to the back of Hardees restaurant.
Go right along the back of Hardees and follow the road left down a hill.
At the bottom of the hill turn right
Turn right into the second driveway where you see a street sign “woodspin studio”
Go on back past the house to the studio
If lost call (276-395-2163)