Welcome to our Basingstoke Store

Mike Spaven and Graham Mansfield from the Surrey Association of Woodturners will be in store demonstrating on the Axminster Trade Series AT406WL lathe and offering advice and tips for woodturners of all standards. Mike will be turning large bowls and Graham will be demonstrating how to create turned acorn boxes.

If you're interested in taking up woodturning, looking for some advice on turning or are interested in finding out the benefits of joining a local woodturning club, then come along to this free introduction.

Depending on Government guidelines we may not be able to provide refreshments so please bring your own soft drinks. We kindly ask that you observe any safety measures in place within the store.

Join professional woodturner Jason Breach RPT in store as they introduce you to the lathe that all turners aspire to own - the Robust American Beauty Lathe. Built without compromise and made to last, these lathes can be fully customised to create a unique machine, specific to the turner's needs. Now we’re giving you the chance to see this premium lathe in action, gain a better understanding of its far reaching capabilities and have your questions answered. You’ll even have the chance to get up close and see the quality for yourself!

Every little detail and accessory of this lathe has been carefully considered and manufactured, making it ergonomically comfortable, flexible, and easy to use for any turner. During this FREE demonstration, Jason will focus solely on the lathe* showcasing the features that set it apart from many others, including but not exhaustive;

- Tilt-away, with one hand the Tailstock can be swept back and replaced by a section of stainless bed that accommodates the tool rest. A huge advantage to hollow form and bowl turning enthusiasts, as tool access is quick and easy.

- Castor and Jack Kit, allows this 360 kg lathe to be easily moved around a workshop, by just one person!

- 16inch Bed Extension, increases turning capacity by an extra 406mm.

Steady Rest, prevents vibration when turning long and thin projects between centres and ensures accuracy

- Low profile rest, for spindle turners that like to wrap their fingers around the tool rest when turning.

Exclusive to Axminster Tools within the UK, this is a rare opportunity to see this world class machine in action but spaces are limited to only 20 people in each session, so please book your place now. We recommend arriving on time to gain the full benefits of this demonstration and we encourage you to come along with questions for the Q&A at the end.

Depending on Government guidelines we may not be able to provide refreshments so please bring your own soft drinks. We kindly ask that you observe any safety measures in place within the store.

*No projects or turning techniques will be demonstrated during this event

Personable and passionate, Helen Bailey is fast becoming a recognisable face on the woodturning scene. Since picking up her first tool, only 5 years ago, Helen’s work has received many accolades and she’s a regular contributor to the World of Woodturners website. During this FREE demonstration Helen will discuss and showcase the techniques she uses to create her award-winning pierced wood forms, including:

- How to achieve a thin walled (even thickness) vessel, including machine set up, wood choice and grain orientation, tools to make the cuts, measuring wall thickness and how to avoid common problems.

- How to mark out and cut pierced patterns, including the techniques for piercing, scratching, stippling, recessing and surface carving. As well as what tools and files to use and favoured design elements.

- Sanding and finishing methods that accentuate the detail and help to avoid damage.

If time allows Helen will end the day with a short demonstration of how she creates her beautiful turned pendants. This is a wonderful opportunity for woodturners of any ability to immerse themselves into the world of decorative forms, to see Helen’s individual style, have their questions answered and learn how to create their own pierced works of art.

We recommend arriving on time to gain the full benefit of this demonstration but spaces are limited to only 30 people, so please book early to avoid disappointment. Depending on Government guidelines we may not be able to provide refreshments so please bring your own soft drinks. We kindly ask that you observe any safety measures in place within the store.