Over the last 23 years of full time studio turning I have been rediscovering the ancient art of woodturning. My interest over the last eight years has been focused on teaching woodturners to understand in detail the actual turning process. This develops the ability to make sensitive and beautiful objects.

In the 80's I became very interested in hook tools and started making these tools first from carbon steel then High Speed Steel. Dell Stubs visited me at that time and went back to the USA teaching my method of making these tools. I have now developed a hollowing tool that has some of the features of the hooktool but is more robust and easier to use. I market it under the trade name Berger Hollowing Tool.

Vacuum chucks have fascinated me and over the last few years and I have developed a system that uses a standard household vacuum cleaner as it's vacuum source. It safely holds bowls between 6"-16". The system is marketed under the trade name Berger-Vac.

On my first trip to USA, I came in contact with John Fox who introduced me to the gentle ways of Japanese woodturning. The Japanese use free moving tool rests, this freedom of movement can teach us new skills. The simplicity of both the way they work and the things they make, have had a strong influence on my work and teaching.

The experience that I have gained in my travels throughout the USA, Sweden and NZ have given me a clear understanding of many of the common problems people encounter while learning to turn. My presentations have proved to be well received and of great interest to both beginners and experienced turners.

Images from the demonstration
(click for a larger image)