Working with wood and woodturning has always been an important part of Dave Appleby's life. He spent many happy hours as a teenager, in a shed in his family’s back garden, working on a small lathe which had an electric drill as motor and drive centre.

Although woodturning was not Dave’s main career it remained an integral part of his life and every chance was taken to increase his skills. His workshop developed over the years and he now has three lathes with his favourite being his VB36 Bowl turning lathe. In 2001 he made the opportunity to immerse himself in his woodturning as a full time business.

"Woods I use are almost entirely from recycled and sustainable sources. Some have been rescued from the log pile or from beaches along the south west coast, others from local orchards, farms and gardens. Inspired by organic forms and natural surroundings I allow the beauty of the wood to suggest the shape and purpose of the piece, sometimes incorporating carving and texturing or adding other natural materials such as leather.

Wassail Bowl in Lignum Vitae

A theme of “myths & legends” inspired me to create a wassail bowl for a Somerset Guild of Craftsmen exhibition in Somerton last year.
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"In addition to exhibiting in galleries in the South West of England I take commissions for special items, demonstrate and teach in local woodturning clubs and can offer 1 to 1 tuition at my workshop."

Dave is a member of The Somerset Guild of Craftsman, a Registered Professional Turner and a member of The Association of Woodturners of Great Britain. He is currently President of the Martock & District Woodturners Club.

Up & Coming Events

18th September - 3rd October 2010. Somerset Arts Weeks.

Dates for your diary. This is an open studio event when my workshop will be open for you to see how I make my pieces and you will be able to view and purchase work from my "home" gallery. For more information see www.somersetartworks.org.uk