Introduction to Woodturning: Pens with Matt Iannacci

Learn the basics of woodturning by making your own wooden ballpoint pen! 3-Hour Workshop Date: Saturday, October 3rd, 2026 Time: 10am–1pm Description: In this beginning woodturning workshop, students will learn the foundations of woodturning to turn their own wooden pen! This class will explore the lathe, different methods of shaping wood on it, and shop safety. All materials, including the pen hardware, are provided. This is a great project to begin your woodturning journey! Each student will leave with their own wooden ballpoint pen—handmade on the lathe by them! Special thanks to Turners Anonymous for the use of lathes during this workshop! Tuition: $80 + $20 materials fee Materials: All materials will be provided. You will be working in a fully operational woodshop and we will go over all equipment safety precautions. Please arrive wearing closed toed shoes, no loose or baggy clothing, and long hair tied back. Location: Contemporary Craft Timmons Studios (5688 Butler St., Pittsburgh, PA 15201) Cancellations and Refunds: Workshop cancellations are decided three business days before the start date. If workshops must be cancelled due to insufficient enrollment, the entire class fee will be refunded by check, to your credit card, or Contemporary Craft account for future workshops. Refund Policy: Student refund requests must be made at least three business days before a class begins. There will be a $25 cancellation fee. No refunds will be given without three-business days notice. Processing of refunds takes approximately three weeks. If you require accessibility accommodations, please let us know by calling 412.261.7003 and we are happy to assist you. About the Artist “I have been woodturning for over 10 years, and doing wood flatwork for more than 7 years. I focus on medium-sized peices (vases, urns, etc., in woodturning, and jewelry boxes and frames in flatwork), usually seeking to combine different wood species to provide color and texture in my pieces. I am also the inventor of the JS3 jig, which is used to set up for compound-angle cuts necessary for splayed-stave woodturning, or boxes with leaning walls.” Outside of woodworking, Matt is a full-time mechanical engineer, a dad, and a saxophone and flute-player in a jazz band in the North Hills in Pittsburgh.