Learn about MG Designs Woodworking

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I have been doing woodworking as a hobby for many years. Over the past few years, I found a new passion in wood turning. What I find most exciting is the ability to work with different mediums beyond wood, such as resin, metals, inlays, etc.

My shop is located in southeastern Wisconsin, United States

I make handcrafted wood-turned pieces, primarily bowls, vases, hollow forms and platters. I specialize in pieces with multiple mediums, such as wood and epoxy resin. Adding resin to the wood offers a beautiful contrast of brilliant colors to the texture of the wood.

My work typically starts with the wood. I look for the most interesting grain patterns and pieces with many nooks and crannies. The wood is fitted into a form or mold, which is often a plastic container or my favorite, a five gallon bucket. Then I pour in the epoxy resin with my choice of color. This typically takes three days to cure. Once cured it is removed from the bucket and mounted on my lathe for turning and hollowing. After lots of sanding it is ready for a few coats of finish. On resin pieces, I prefer a high gloss finish.

It may sound cliche, but I let the wood inspire the piece.  I will often have an idea or vision going into the work. As I am shaping the foot of a vase and carving away the wood an interesting knot or grain pattern may appear and I will change the shape to highlight it.

I want to create unique statement pieces of art. I do not do repetitive production pieces. I like to try new techniques and introduce different materials in my work, such as pine cones and banksia pods, which add interesting patterns when turned.

My career is in Information Security so I spend most of my days in front of a computer screen. Wood turning in my creative outlet and my time to unwind. My wife, Julie, is my creative inspiration and advisor. We talk through my plans from that initial concept through the final product. We are empty nesters, with all the kids grown and living out of state. It is just us and our spoiled Bernese Mountain Dog named Kellen who wants everyone to know his image inspired my logo. 

Most of my work, especially the resin pieces have a durable gloss finish. They are decorative and not intended or safe for food use; unless specifically noted. The only care and cleaning needed is dusting and polishing with a soft cotton or microfiber cloth.  A slightly damp cloth can be used if necessary.