Platters

A question frequently asked by visitors to our gallery is, "What is the difference between a platter and shallow bowl?" In simplest terms, Bowls have larger, deeper wells while Platters have a shallow profile and straightforward simplicity. Although I have, on occasion, created platters in the classic style (see Cocobolo platter), my preference is to create my Platters with flaring rims and understated decorative effect. Platters are the perfect way for a woodturner to utilize attractive wood which is too thin for turning either a Bowl or Hollow Form. It is not all that uncommon to get a blank sufficient for turning several platters. When this occurs, I often do several platters which, at first glance, appear similar but, closer inspection will reveal subtle variations.

And, be advised that a platter can be turned using wood supplied by the client---you. Should you want to order a custom-turned Platter, I would have to first inspect the wood to ensure it being usable for what you would like. For details re; custom orders, E-mail me at webmaster@harrywicks.com or, harrywix@yahoo.com. Or, if you would like to visit our studio-gallery, please call or email and we will provide directions for getting here and date confirmation---so I am certain to be here when you arrive.

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This large-diameter platter was turned from a piece of maple with lots of pencil- line spalting running through it. To highlight the spalting, the platter was created with a flaring rim surrounding the painted center with its carved radial pattern. Item Number: 1P   Price: $175.00	Oftentimes, carving and painting are utilized in a turning to emphasize the wood's beauty. Here the lovely cherry grain, at center, is highlighted by a rim carefully carved to create heavy texturing before finishing with a satin finish. Item Number: 2P   Price: $225.00
This is the classic platter shape; a design that professional woodturners have favored for more than 100 years. Its beauty comes from simplicity of design---a clean-line platter resting upon an unadorned pedestal. I could not resist the urge to create a platter in this shape and felt Cocobolo was the perfect wood to do it with. Item Number: 3P   Price: $195.00	'Drought', created from a poplar log, boasts a natural fault along its edge. I felt the wood ideal for creating a platter with an aged look. Adding to rim character is the detailing at center; carved, textured and painted to represent dried, cracked earth. Item Number: 4P   Price: $95.00