After retiring from IBM in early 1987, I became serious about my woodturning and started taking classes from well-known turners, beginning with Rude Osolnik.

Next I began taking classes at Arrowmont in Gatlinburg, TN. with many world-renown turners before I started assisting there.

I have taught at Arrowmont, John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, NC and Appalachian Center for Crafts in Smithville, TN., as well as in my own studio.

I have demonstrated for the Utah Woodturning Symposium in Provo, UT., G.A.W. woodturning Symposium at Unicoi State Park in Helen, Ga., the Turn About Wood tool and supply store in Kansas City, Mo., and for many local chapters across the country.

My turnings have sold at art and craft shows, but recently I have limited it to mostly galleries.

I am among the very fortunate few who do not have to live off my turning. So, I do it for the pure enjoyment of turning and passing along any tips and expertise I have acquired over the past 20 years.

I am not a professional woodturner. It was just a hobby that got out of hand. Tom Fortenbery