Buffalo Creek Gallery
Clarence Cogdell
Woodturner
         
Member/Studio Artists
Consignment Artists
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Clarence was born and raised on a farm in rural Cleveland County, North Carolina. He married the girl next door and raised his family not far from the homestead.

Clarence became interested in woodturning in 2000, after he refurbished an old turning lathe. His experience with lathes was not new since he had farmed 150 acres and made many parts for his farm equipment on his metal lathe.

 



Clarence discovered a world of difference between a metal and a wood lathe. With woodturning he has to consider the type and availability of wood, the dryness, the flow of the grain, and the right tools. His metal lathe still comes in handy as he makes many wood turning tools by hand.

 



 
As a member of the NC Wood Turners Association, Clarence learns through watching well-known guest wood turners demonstrate their skills at the monthly club meetings. Encouraged by friends and family, he bought a new lathe and enjoys turning bowls, vases, birdhouses, saucers, and much more!
 
 
Early in 2006, Clarence began making hats on the lathe! He makes Cowboy, Aussie, Range Rider, and Garden hats. These hats are custom-made, sized to fit, and can be safely worn outdoors.
  


Lee Cogdell - Son




Randy Cogdell - Nephew
 

Great care and caution is required to turn a hat. The process involves careful selection of wood, turning a thin brim, fitting it to a mold to shape the brim, with constant inspection and gradual adjustment during the drying process.
 

 


When dry, the hat is meticulously sanded before applying at least 20 coats of lacquer to achieve the final lustrous shine and added protection.

The entire process takes 6-7 weeks!

  


 

Contact Clarence at: turningpoint1941@yahoo.com