One to One Pen Making Experience

Let’s Hear My StoryHi, I’m Duncs — the hands (and heart) behind Duncs Wood Turning.My love for woodturning started as a hobby years ago, but like many good things, it drifted into the background as life got busy. In 2019, I felt the pull back to the lathe, and that rekindling changed everything. What began as a way to unwind and reconnect with making something tangible quickly became a real passion again. There’s something incredibly grounding about turning a raw piece of timber into a finished object with character, warmth, and purpose — no two pieces are ever the same, and that’s what hooked me all over again.Pen turning, in particular, captured my attention. It’s a craft that blends precision with creativity, patience with playfulness. A pen might seem like a small thing, but when you make one yourself, it becomes something personal — and that’s a bit magical.Why I Love TeachingI officially started teaching pen turning courses in mid-2024, and it’s been one of the most rewarding steps in my journey so far. Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of teaching approximately 40 students at this location, each with their own reasons for wanting to learn — from total beginners to people looking for a new creative outlet.I love teaching because I get to share that “aha!” moment: when the lathe clicks, the wood starts to take shape, and someone realizes, "I made this." Watching confidence grow alongside skill is incredibly satisfying, and I genuinely enjoy creating a relaxed, encouraging space where people feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and learning by doing.A Little Something About Me (and the Craft)Something many people don’t realize about woodturning is how much it slows you down — in the best possible way. It teaches patience, focus, and respect for the material. Every knot, grain pattern, or imperfection tells a story, and part of the craft is learning when to guide the wood and when to let it lead.As for me? I’m still very much hands-on, always learning, always experimenting, and always excited by the next piece of timber on the lathe. What started as a rekindled hobby has grown into something I’m genuinely proud of — a craft I care deeply about and love sharing with others.Why Learn With MeWhile my teaching journey is relatively short, my approach is rooted in real experience, passion, and a genuine love for the craft. I focus on one-to-one or groups of two, clear guidance, and making sure everyone leaves not just with a finished pen, but with the confidence to keep turning.If you’re curious about woodturning, looking for a creative challenge, or just want to try something a little different, I’d love to welcome you into the workshop and share what I’ve learned so far — and what I’m still discovering every day.