I'm Joshua Friend, a woodturner and writer.  I started woodturning in high school and knew then that someday I would have my own wood shop with a lathe.  Many years later, and with many thanks to my very supportive wife, that dream came true and I started J. Friend Woodworks to sell my handturned items. I also write articles on woodturning, some of which are available here as PDF downloads.

I make and sell a wide variety of handturned items from the wood lathe, including bowls, platters, salt & pepper shakers, wine and champagne glasses, winestoppers, pens, lidded boxes, urns, and more. In my turning, I favor American hardwoods like black walnut, butternut (aka, white walnut), ash, maple, and cherry.  On occasion, I use exotic woods like rosewood, zebrawood, and padauk, especially for small items like pens or winestoppers.  But like many turners, I mostly use what is given to me or what I find locally.

There are few thrills greater than cutting into a log and seeing what wood grain awaits you.  Plus, there is a special satisfaction in making an object that will be used and treasured by someone else.  That is why I strive to make heirloom quality woodturnings that are both beautiful and functional.

I sell my work at craft fair and gallery exhibitions and through custom orders.  Please visit my Upcoming Shows page for a list of craft fairs and galleries at which I will be exhibiting.  My custom work can be tailored to meet your specific requests, such as a salad bowl of a certain size and type of wood with matching salt & pepper shakers, or a set of personalized wine glasses.  So please don't hesitate to contact me with your project ideas.

My Portfolio page displays a wide variety of items I have made – some in inventory and some already sold.  If you see something you like in my Portfolio, please Contact Me to check on its availability and price.

I am a proud member of the American Association of Woodturners (AAW) and The Nutmeg Woodturner's League.