Among the many pieces that Don has done,some of the most beautiful have been created from "burls"-the knots that are found on the side of trees.These used to be discarded as useless--not even fit for firewood--but inside can be hidden a gem just waiting to be brought out by the artist who can find it.

One of the most striking was a birch burl coffee table 44" in diameter and 20"deep.Needless to say,these pieces are dangerous to turn and have to be approached with due caution.Unique lamps and candleholders can be created from burls,as well as artistic bowls.

Another of Don's favorite projects is turning a piece from wood that has grown on a family homestead or property with special meaning.This then becomes a family heirloom that can be passed down from generation to generation to commemorate a special place or event.One such project was for a couple who were going to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary and wanted something to give each of their children. Don went to their farm and cut a large tree from the property.From this he turned more than thirty pieces--among them a table,a lamp and many bowls of different sizes.

Don's wife,Sue,started making lampshades to finish the lamps that he was turning.From this it has grown to a business of her own-creating shades from lampshade paper in "cut-and-pierce" designs as well as fabric.