The basic distinction between plain and ornamental turning is that plain turnings are produced while the work turns on the lathe, usually with hand-held tools doing the cutting, whereas in ornamental turning the work is held still while the special cutters revolve to make some of the complicated patterns you see here.  The three exhibitors are all members of the Society of Ornamental Turners.

JOHN EDWARDS is Past President of the Society of Ornamental Turners and a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Turners. He has been an ornamental turner for more than 20 years and has won many medals and prizes for his work. He is also a collector and restorer of Ornamental Turning machinery and has written numerous articles on various aspects of the craft.              

CECIL JORDAN is a retired professional turner and a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Turners. His work is represented in collections at The V&A, The Crafts Council and the Craft Study Centre which used to be housed in the Holburne Museum.  He has exhibited in several galleries both in England and abroad including The Chapel Row Gallery.  His ability to teach has meant he has been a visiting tutor at Parnham House and West Dean amongst other places.  He lives in Cheltenham.

SIMON SMALLWOOD is Bath based and was initially inspired to buy a lathe at a Parnham House summer school, tutored by Cecil Jordan. He has been turning for about 15 years.  His work has been exhibited at private exhibitions at Christie’s, St James’s.  Recent commissions have included chessmen in ivory, decorated with ornamental turning and an ivory peppermill in addition to several screw top boxes for various purposes.

Last modified: March 27, 2008