Community club opens doors to first-time turners
West Riding Woodturners has set out plans to broaden its reach across the Bradford district, encouraging residents — including younger people — to try the ancient craft of woodturning through a series of accessible, hands-on sessions. The volunteer-led group says interest has been strong since launching introductory events this spring and it now aims to sustain and expand that momentum with newly secured community funding.
Woodturning, a centuries-old technique using a lathe to shape symmetrical items such as bowls, pens and table legs, is at the heart of the club’s programme. The group operates from a site in Riddlesden, working out of two containers at John W Laycocks, and has also been running a monthly public session at Damart in Bingley to give newcomers a safe, supervised first experience with the tools.
Opening up access — and keeping costs down
To make the first step easier, the club offers two free sessions to newcomers before they decide whether to commit to a project and membership. Leaders describe the craft as creative and accessible, with an emphasis on low-cost participation and peer support from experienced members.
“Our first session was the end of April when we had 41 people. We want to expand out to the people of Bradford. It’s an addictive hobby. I find it totally relaxing and very exciting. But it’s the sort of hobby anyone can do,” said John Douglas, the club’s secretary.
The club says it hopes to attract more young people in particular, to help keep the skill alive and embedded locally. Items produced by members range from practical objects to decorative work; one member’s bowl was shown at the Great Yorkshire Show, underlining the pathway from first attempts to exhibition-standard pieces.
Funding underpinning outreach
Organisers have confirmed that the outreach programme is supported by new grants and pledges, enabling more public tasters and equipment access.
| Funder | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Bingley Town Council | £1,050 | Support for community outreach |
| Asda Community Chest | £750 (pledged) | Additional outreach resources |
| Association of Woodturners of Gr... | £350 (pledged) | Support towards activities |
In a statement, the club framed its offer as open to all and focused on giving as many residents as possible the chance to try the craft.
“If anyone is looking for a different productive pastime or just want to try a new experience that is fun and not expensive give it a go. At West Riding Wood Turners club, we are working at giving anyone in the community who would like the opportunity of hands-on experience of woodturning over the rest of the year and into 2027.”
What new starters can expect
- Hands-on guidance with lathes at monthly taster sessions in Bingley and regular activities at the Riddlesden base.
- Two complimentary sessions for beginners before any commitment to a project or membership.
- Peer support from experienced turners and the chance to develop from simple items to more advanced work.
The club reports strong early interest — with 41 attendees at its April launch session — and says it will continue to promote introductory workshops across the district in the coming months. While dates and booking details vary by venue, the message is consistent: first-timers are welcome, with all essential safety briefings and supervision provided on site.
Why it matters for Bradford
Amid rising demand for affordable, practical pastimes, the expansion of woodturning sessions provides a locally run route into craft skills that can be sustained and shared. With activity anchored in Riddlesden and public tasters in Bingley, the initiative is intended to reach communities across the Bradford district, widening participation in a heritage craft while keeping entry costs low.
The group’s mix of small grants and pledges underwrites consumables and access to equipment, helping remove barriers for those without tools or prior experience. For residents curious about trying something new — whether for relaxation, creativity or learning a new skill — the club’s offer is designed to be straightforward: turn up, have a go, and see where the shavings fall.
