In the heart of Brackendowns, a community of woodturning enthusiasts gathers every second Saturday of the month.
Known as the One Good Turn Wood Turners’ Club, this diverse group draws together individuals ranging from their teens to their late 70s, united by a shared passion for turning wood into works of art.
A vision of passing on skills
Schalk van Niekerk, a seasoned craftsman with years of experience in furniture-making and woodturning, founded the club in 2016.
His vision went beyond creating a space for woodturning enthusiasts – he wanted to establish a platform where seniors could pass down their skills to younger generations.
“Woodturning is a craft that requires patience, creativity, and precision. It’s something we’ve learnt and cherished over the years, and it’s important to teach these skills to the youth so they can use them and keep the tradition alive,” he explains.
Van Nieker’s journey to bring this vision to life began with an advert in the Alberton Record newspaper, inviting like-minded individuals to join him in forming a woodturning club.
The response was overwhelmingly positive, and the One Good Turn Wood Turners’ Club was born, starting with just 10 members.
A place for everyone
Since its early days, the club has been a welcoming space for beginners and experienced woodturners. Members learn at their own pace, guided by Van Niekerk and other seasoned members.
The projects range from simple items like honey dippers and pens to more intricate creations like pepper mills and decorative bowls. New members are encouraged to dive in without hesitation because the club provides the necessary tools and materials.
“Everything is supplied, from woodturning tools to timber. We want to make it as easy as possible for people to get started and enjoy the process,” says Peter Hall, a longtime member.
A legacy of craftsmanship
Over the years, One Good Turn has seen members come and go, with some, sadly, passing on. However, the core group remains strong, driven by their shared commitment to preserving and passing on this timeless craft.
Recently, the club reached out to the community again, aiming to attract more members and continue bridging the gap between generations.
“It’s rewarding to see younger members learning from seniors. This isn’t just about woodturning. It is about keeping a tradition alive and building connections across generations,” explains Hall.
Join the club
If you’re looking for a creative outlet or a way to connect with others, One Good Turn offers a welcoming environment where you can learn and grow. Call Van Niekerk on 082 443 4977 or Hall on 083 702 8065 to learn more or join the club.
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