After the previous meeting, in which Pieterjan participated in a workshop by Martijn, it was now time for something more serious. A real festival. At least, a small event. Draaifeest 2024. 30 participants and 5 teachers. A whole weekend full of everything related to turning on the pole lathe and of course a lot of fun.
This was the second year that this event was organized by Martijn, Sjors (VersHout) and Wim (Malushout). This second time we wanted to expand a little and therefore it was good that Pieterjan could be involved. Together we thought about what the weekend should look like and what should be done for to reach that. There is more to it than just a workshop.
Although the event was not scheduled to start until Friday evening, we were already there on Thursday. There was plenty to do: setting up tents and seating, setting up lathes, getting tools and wood ready, doing the shopping, going over the planning, etc..
Between our meeting about making lathes and this event, Pieterjan had found the time to make a few more lathes. Unfortunately, not all centers (the metal pins between which the wood is clamped) were properly secured. But the weather was good and we had some spare time. So, heat the pins (so that the glue comes loose) and remove them. Then make the round pins more square and glue them back in. Problem solved. And after a long day, you are hungry, and that includes a good meal from over the campfire.
The weekend itself consisted of multiple workshops, with different projects and for different levels of turners. We also had two competitions, where everyone could vote for their best/most beautiful/nicest/sleekest…. creations. Two competitions, one with products that had already been turned and one for the results of Saturday.
All in all a successful weekend. Again next year! Mark 13 to 15 June 2025 in your agenda for the next edition of Draaifeest!
