Northeastern Woodworkers Association

The Sensational Skew with Jim Echter

Professional turner and instructor Jim Echter is making a special trip to New York’s Capital Region this November to teach two all-day classes. With more than 40 years of woodturning and teaching experience, Jim will guide students through practical, hands-on exercises designed to improve control of the skew and expand their turning skills. Learn more about Jim at tcturning.com/about.

What You Will Learn

• How to select, handle, and control a skew chisel with confidence
• The recommended sharpening profile and how it supports clean, predictable cuts
• How to perform a range of essential skew cuts safely and effectively
• How to turn pommels—the transition between square or multi-sided stock and a rounded, turned section
• Techniques for turning consistent duplicate pieces
• How to apply each technique through extensive, supervised lathe practice

Class Schedule

Morning—Skew Fundamentals: Begin with an overview of the skew chisel, its sharpening profile, and the variety of cuts it can make. Most of the session will be spent at the lathe putting these concepts into practice.

Afternoon—Pommels and Duplicate Turning: Learn how to create clean pommel transitions and produce matching turned pieces. The afternoon includes generous practice time so you can reinforce the techniques with Jim’s guidance.

Who Should Attend

All skill levels are welcome. Students should be familiar with basic lathe operation. Whether you are new to the skew or ready to refine your technique, this immersive class offers focused instruction, plenty of hands-on practice, and practical skills you can take back to your own shop. Space may be limited—reserve your place and make the most of this special opportunity to learn from an experienced professional.