My lovely wife, Lois, and I live in Blind Bay, B.C. where I am most fortunate to be able to not only pursue my passion, but to also share it with others.

Born and raised in Salmon Arm, B.C., I am a former Professional Chef/Educator, and hold a diploma in Professional Cooking from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology as well as a Batchelor of Education Degree (U of A).

My woodworking began as a young boy while in my father’s workshop, and has continued through my life. What started as a hobby has now become a committed vocation. I enjoy all aspects of the woodworking arena but my true passion is wood turning. Though basically self taught, I’ve had valuable assistance along the way through symposiums, structured workshops, wood shows, competitions, learning media and plenty of practice. As well as creating designed segmented vessels I now host wood turning classes in my shop (upon request) and provide regular mentoring to numerous up and coming turners. I am a member of the Kamloops Woodworkers guild.

Segmented wood art is constructed with many pieces of various wood species and types. Once the initial piece is conceptualized it must be meticulously designed - detailed plans are drawn up. Sometimes the wood inspires the design; sometimes the design requires an international search to find the perfect colouring and grain. It is assembled into rings, stacked together, glued, then shaped or turned on a wood lathe to the desired shape and form.

All wood has “life” even after the growth process in tree form – it moves constantly. This movement is caused by changes in humidity and temperature. The segmented process orients the grain structure in the vessel to minimize the movement however; movement is still possible, just less likely. The piece is finished using a natural Danish oil followed by a polishing process using two compounds on a buffing wheel. The final step is an application of Carnuba wax.

Quails’ Tale:

Quails’ Nest Studio is very proud to announce that Bill recently won the First Place blue ribbon award for “Cherry Sunburst” at the Kamloops Woodworkers Guild show. Congratulations, Bill! (see “Cherry Sunburst” in the QNS Gallery - Wood Art)

Care of your Segmented Wood Creation:

These fabulous vessels are not happy in direct sunlight or very near heat sources such as a register or fireplace mantle where the heat rises and makes contact directly with the piece. Do not subject your piece to any form of liquid or moisture. Should the piece “capture” finger prints from a guest who “just has to touch”, as this art form truly begs to be handled, simply buff it up with a soft cotton or microfibre cloth. Most importantly, enjoy it, knowing what once was a masterpiece of nature, outside, is now a unique, inspired masterpiece of art for your ‘inside’!