John Bouchillon

Interests: I enjoy all forms of woodcarving, turning, burning, and working. In addition, I enjoy computers, stained glass, photography, model aviation, and tool making and Blacksmithing.

Background: I retired in 1993, after 33 years as an Electronics Engineer in Army Aviation. I started woodcarving when I retired, with classes in basic woodcarving and tool sharpening. I continued with seminars sponsored by our club and added more advanced classes by Jeff Phares, Debbie Edwards, Gerald Sears, John Engler, Doane and Silver Dollar City.

Awards: I have several Best of Show awards and numerous Blue ribbons from our annual Wonders of Wood Show. I also won the Class B Peoples Choice Award in 2003.

Thoughts: The old saying, “Only wimps use sharp tools, push harder” is always good for a laugh, but that’s about all. The most important thing you can do for your carving enjoyment is to use sharp tools. The second most important thing is to learn to recognize a sharp tool. Third, learn how to create one.

The Moose is 14 inches tall. Carved in bass wood and mounted on an "unknown found wood" base. Painted with acrylics using brushes and airbrush. Won advanced best of show and peoples choice class B in 2003.

Ohmygosh Itsabear is 5 1/2 feet tall. Carved in place from a standing pine tree stump using chain saw, rotary grinders and large gouges and other carving tools. Finished with TWP and oil based stains.

The Wolves are 14 inches. Carved in basswood and finished with acrylics.

The Bluebird is carved in basswood and finished with acrylics. Base is Aspin log. Leaves and branch are copper.

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