Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to join Burcot Woodturners Club?
It costs £21 per year to join the AWGB (Association of Woodturners of Great Britain). Members under 21 are free to join.
Do I pay any other fees?
The only fee that the club charges is for our monthly meetings. That is £4 for all members, over the age 21, for the evening and is paid when you come in. We now accept all major credit and debit cards for meeting fees
When does the AWGB subscription run from?
The membership year runs from 1st January to 31st December. Half year membership is available from 1st July to 31st December at half the yearly subscription rate. Applications received after 1st October will last until 31st December in the following year, providing the full annual subscription has been paid.
Can I bring a guest to a club meeting?
Absolutely! We welcome guests to come and see what we’re all about. No need to let us know in advance and the first meeting is free for guests.
Is membership in the club also membership in the Association of Woodturners of Great Britain (AWGB)?
Yes, membership in the Burcot Woodturners club includes membership in the AWGB.
Is there a minimum age to join?
There is no minimum or maximum age to join our club! Everyone is welcome. Each applicant under 18 will be assessed based on their seriousness of the craft and if they take Health and Safety aspect seriously.
What activities does the Club get involved with?
Apart from our monthly meetings, Burcot Woodturners regularly attend shows and events in order to promote the craft of woodturning.
As a club we actively encourage members to come along and get involved on the stand at shows, and it gives us an opportunity to engage with members of the public about our heritage craft.
Can I buy tools and timber at the club?
At most of our meetings you will find that there is a selection of second hand tools and woodturning blanks that are for sale.
This is a good way to get hands on some tools to add to you collection (especially if you are just starting out), or to purchase a tool that you have not used in order to have a go. You can also pick up woodturning blanks so that you have something to turn with your new tools.
We also run a raffle at our Hands On evenings and our Christmas Social evening and usually tools and blanks are among the raffle prizes.
Can I get some woodturning lessons at the club?
On our hands on night we usually have 3 club lathes in operation and each lathe is designated for a different level of experience – novice, intermediate and experienced. Once you are a member you are covered by the AWGB insurance and can have a go on a lathe.
You will find plenty of experienced members at the club who are always happy to give advice (normally over a cup of coffee and a biscuit) including two AWGB Approved Tutors, who offer formal lessons.
I don’t currently own a lathe or any equipment, does that stop me from joining?
Put simply – NO. There is no requirement to have a lathe or equipment before joining our club, in fact you will probably find that we have members who are looking to sell equipment that will be ideal for you to start with.
As a member you will be eligible for discounts from various suppliers if you are looking to buy new.
Whatever your situation, you will find a friendly welcome from members who are always happy to answer questions and give you advice no matter what your level of experience is.