PAUL JOHNSON

Paul Johnson, a wood turner, spent his working life in the building industry, starting on his tools and then moving into management, eventually becoming Chief Buyer for a large building company. To relieve the stress of his demanding job, he tried several hobbies, including clay pigeon shooting and building and flying radio-controlled models. He eventually tried woodturning and found it very addictive, sparking his passion for it. He began with second-hand equipment and tools.
After retiring in early 2014, Paul moved to his current home, built a new workshop, upgraded his lathe and tools, and started turning virtually full-time. He mainly uses home-grown timber (Ash, Beech, and Oak) with a few African hardwoods thrown in. The size and color guide his creations, and sometimes the wood itself determines what is made, often presenting unexpected surprises. All his woods are sustainably sourced from suppliers or given to him by people who know he turns.
Through the Association of Woodturners Great Britain (AWGB), Paul trained to be an instructor, allowing him to teach and pass on his knowledge. Along with doing his own work and occasional commission pieces, he also teaches on a one-to-one basis in his workshop, helping people of all ages and genders to start turning safely, from 10-year-olds to 80-year-olds. He also teaches at his local woodturning club, Kent Woodturners.
Most of Paul’s work is finished in food-safe mineral oils, with an awareness of nut allergies, so it can be used and is easy to look after. After use, he recommends wiping out with a damp cloth or sponge and re-oiling using a good quality mineral oil or food-safe chopping board oil. He suggests putting a small amount of oil on a tissue and wiping it around the bowl. Recently, Paul has started to introduce colored pieces into his designs.

back