Dennis will have three pieces in the ‘Quilts and Fine Woodworking’ Show at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, opening September 25th. This is the 24th year for one of the Museum’s most popular shows. The Cherry Server and Goblet with laminated twisted stem represent traditional uses of twistwork. Dennis will also exhibit the Celtic Knot stone inlay vessel from Colorado Aspen. All three pieces will be for sale during the show.
Dennis has used the open twist for candlesticks in the past, but this new piece is the first time he has created a tall serving vessel with a twisted base. To increase the strength of the twist, he has lengthened it somewhat. It also tapers quite elegantly as it raises the shallow bowl upward. The base adds stability, reflecting the ogee curve of the underside of the bowl.
The entire piece is turned from American Cherry. As it ages, it will darken to the familar dark red cherry tones. The finish is penetrating oil, with a hand-rubbed wax.
Overall height 10.5″ x 11″ diameter
Note: The ‘How-to’ technical notes for making twistwork are found on the ‘Skills’ tab of this website….
The lacy edge adds lift to this more substantial goblet form. Cover the rim, and you will discover that the lace is not ‘fluff’–it creates the success of the piece. Ornament at its best completes and energizes the form. Dennis learned this technique working with Stuart Mortimer.
Twins - Both are right-hand twists
Dennis turned these goblets for the Southern States Symposium demonstration from canary wood, with a laminated stem of holly and canary wood. They are 10 1/2″ tall. The twist is a right hand twist, which means that it appears to rise from left to right. Sometimes a pair of goblets or candlesticks will have one right-hand twist, and one left-hand twist.
The goblets are decorative, although they might be used once or twice for a special toast. Spirits will definitely damage the finish.
The How-To of Twistwork is found on the ‘Skills’ tab of this website.
Open twists make a great finial–light and airy, especially in a darker color. Notice that your eye goes to the ends of the bines, where particular care needs to be taken with the cut. Dennis turned this piece in 2001 after studying with Stuart Mortimer.