This site is dedicated to the art of woodturning and the woodworking/carving skills needed to advance that art. I don't claim to be an "artist," but I try to at least advance my skill with every new vessel I attempt to make. Some of my attempts are shown here for your enjoyment. If you wish to contact me, feel free to email me at bob@hovde.us or call at 256-532-3923.

About me: I am fully retired now - splitting my time between volunteer work and my studio. (I'd call it a "shop," but "studio" seems more artsy. I'm trying to create vessels that people would like to display rather than use everyday. I make some bowls for everyday use when asked to make "presents."

In my past life, I flew airplanes and worked as an engineer, analyst and program manager. Woodworking in those days consisted of whatever needed to be done - build a table, make a cabinet, add a room. Since we live in a 100 year-old house, some of that is still true, but the lathe is my escape. Early-on in this new phase of my life I got encouragement and a lot of good advice from the people on the Sawmillcreek forums. I heartily recommend this site to any woodworker. The people in the Creek are friendly, helpful and supportive to experts and novices alike.

Bob Hovde

(The last name is Norwegian. Some people seem to be intimidated by it. At the doctor's office, when the nurse gets a blank look on her face, I stand up. Just pronounce all of the letters - two syllables - and most Hovdes will recognize you are talking to them.)