Wood Turning Introduction: Make a French Rolling Pin

This hands‑on beginner course invites students into the craft of wood turning through a classic and satisfying first project: a French rolling pin. Over the span of the class, participants learn the fundamentals of lathe safety, tool handling, wood selection, and shaping techniques while transforming a raw blank into a beautifully tapered, functional kitchen tool.

Students practice essential spindle‑turning skills—roughing, smoothing, tapering, and finishing—guided step‑by‑step in a supportive workshop environment. Along the way, the class explores grain direction, tool geometry, sanding strategies, and food‑safe finishing options. By the end, each participant leaves with a handcrafted rolling pin and the confidence to continue exploring the world of wood turning.

About your Instructor: Bob Hovde is an accomplished woodturner/woodcrafter with over 20 years of experience turning wood. Bob is a member of the American Association of Woodturners and is the Past aPresident of the North Alablama Woodcrafters.