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Rich Hamady

—an I.T. professional by day, woodturner by passion!

I've always been drawn to working with my hands, and in 2016, I started exploring woodturning as a way to reconnect with that creative side. It started with crafting paddles, but I soon fell in love with the endless possibilities of turning wood into functional works of art.

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Whether I’m designing a custom bowl or crafting a unique espresso tamper, I view each piece as a collaboration with the wood itself. The grain, texture, and unique character of the wood guide me through the creation process. Wood is half the artist, and I’m the other half.

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As I approach corporate retirement, I’m focusing more on my craft, creating pieces that not only look beautiful but are made to last. Every item I make is intended to become a cherished heirloom, passed down for generations.

I'm a proud member of...

The American Association of Woodturners and Tidewater Turners of Virginia, where I also serve on the Board of Directors. These memberships provide invaluable opportunities for continued growth and learning in this craft, reinforcing my belief that we should never stop learning, both personally and professionally. Embracing new challenges, sharing knowledge, and supporting the woodturning community help me grow as both a maker and a lifelong student of this trade!

Tidewater Turners
American Association of Woodturners
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At Hamady Design Studio

I specialize in creating functional art

As a surfer with a deep love for the ocean, my journey began with crafting paddles for paddle-boarding and outrigger canoe paddling. The sea turtle, a constant companion in my ocean adventures, became the symbol of my work, representing my connection to the sea.

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Today, Hamady Design Studio has expanded to create a variety of functional art pieces to be both beautiful and lasting. Whether it's a handcrafted piece of jewelry or a custom clock, each piece is made to be used and appreciated for years to come.

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Every creation goes through a thoughtful, hands-on process—from selecting the wood to the final finishing touches. I take my time, ensuring each detail is intentional and every curve purposeful. The result is a unique, high-quality piece that combines art with function.

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The Process

Every piece is a labor of love—made to last, and designed to tell its own story.

Selecting the Wood:

I start with a large log, often sourced locally to which I then cut into rough pieces approximate to the size I will need.

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Rough Turning:

The wood is placed on the lathe for a rough turn, where I begin to shape it into the basic form of the piece.

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Drying & Curing:

Depending on the wood, this step can take 8 months to a year to ensure the piece is properly cured and free of moisture.

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Finishing Touches:

After the piece has dried, I remount it on the lathe for the finishing turn, where I perfect the shape, smooth the surface, and refine the details.

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Sanding & Polishing:

Finally, I hand-sand the piece and apply a durable, eco-friendly finish that brings out the wood's natural beauty.

 

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Each step of the process is carefully executed, ensuring that every piece is not only a work of art but also a lasting, functional treasure.

"Wood, with its natural beauty, is half the artist, and I’m the other half. Every piece I make tells a story and is built to be cherished for generations.”

Hamady Design Studio © 2024 Designed by Shelby L

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