Mike Holley Woodturning

Mike Holley has enjoyed the craft of woodturning for several years as an occasional activity due to work commitments.  Now having retired from a career in unrelated work and with more time to spare, he is able to concentrate more on one of his major interest. He uses mainly local woods that are in plentiful supply, passed on by friends cutting off the odd branch from a tree in their garden or sourced from one of the islands tree surgeons.

To gain experience over the past few years he has attended woodturning courses and a masterclass in the UK run by Melvyn Firmager, a Master Turner who is internationally recognized for his work and specialized techniques.

Most of Mike’s work is produced on a ‘VB 36’ lathe, with the occasional use of a ‘Record CL3-48’ for spindle work. He prefers doing ‘faceplate’ work, making bowls, vases and hollow forms together with the occasional sculptural piece.

His work is displayed and available through several craft fairs held throughout the year. He will also consider one off commissions dependent on the type of wood and item required.

Mike considers working with wood a challenge and continuous learning experience but one that gives him immense pleasure and satisfaction.