Turning
Turning is a fundamental woodworking technique where a piece of wood is spun on a special machine called a lathe while tools are used to shape it. Think of it like making pottery, but with wood instead of clay. This skill is essential for creating round objects like table legs, bowls, vases, and decorative pieces. When someone mentions turning in their resume, they're referring to their ability to create these cylindrical or round items. It's a highly valued skill in furniture making, custom woodworking, and architectural woodworking industries.
Examples in Resumes
Created custom staircase spindles using Turning techniques on hardwoods
Specialized in Wood Turning to produce high-end decorative bowls and vases
Operated lathe for Woodturning projects including table legs and architectural elements
Typical job title: "Wood Turners"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Wood Turners
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle complex custom turning projects with specific client requirements?
Expected Answer: An experienced turner should discuss project planning, wood selection, creating test pieces, and communication with clients. They should mention safety considerations and problem-solving approaches for challenging designs.
Q: How do you train others in turning techniques while maintaining production quality?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience, ability to break down complex processes into teachable steps, and knowledge of quality control measures while mentoring others.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when selecting wood for a turning project?
Expected Answer: Should discuss wood grain patterns, moisture content, hardness, and potential defects. Should show understanding of how these factors affect the final product.
Q: How do you maintain quality consistency when making multiple identical pieces?
Expected Answer: Should explain use of templates, measuring tools, and quality control procedures. Should demonstrate understanding of efficient production methods.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic safety procedures do you follow when turning wood?
Expected Answer: Should mention proper protective equipment (safety glasses, face shield), proper tool handling, and basic machine safety procedures.
Q: Can you describe the basic tools used in wood turning?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify and explain the use of common turning tools like gouges, skew chisels, and parting tools, and basic maintenance of these tools.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic lathe operation
- Simple spindle turning
- Basic tool handling
- Understanding of safety procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex shape creation
- Bowl and vessel turning
- Wood selection expertise
- Tool maintenance and sharpening
Senior (5+ years)
- Custom design work
- Training and supervision
- Complex project management
- Specialty turning techniques
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic safety procedures
- Inability to identify common turning tools
- Lack of experience with different wood types
- No understanding of wood moisture content and its importance
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