Paul Benson, self taught Scroll Saw Artisan
After over 35 years of pushing rocks uphill (I worked in data processing in corporate America), my wife said: “You’ll be retiring in a few years; FIND A HOBBY.”
I have always been fascinated by the delicate and intricate cuts one sees in fine wood working. I asked around and bought a scroll saw and a book (it was pre-internet and book learning suits me.)
- After 5 years of breaking blades and cussing, I could give stuff away.
- After 10 years, (less blade breaking but plenty of cussing), I could sell at craft shows.
- After 15 years, I have learned a few things.
- Don’t try to dominate the wood, work with the wood and embrace the beauty which has come to me.
- I now cut copper, aluminum, and thin steel in addition to wood.
- Images can tell a story, cut more than an object.
- I took a drawing course and have added perspective to my images.
- A piece is more than the cut work: the frame and backing can enhance the piece.
- I still have plenty to learn.
A poem begins in delight and ends in wisdom.
Robert Frost
My cuttings are my poems.
Paul Benson
January 2021, the end of the beginning of Coronavirus.
Sometimes it is better to be lucky than good…
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