Infusing Wood Into Unique Art

Infusing Wood Into Unique Art

Drew Sutor has been working wood for years. He started out turning pieces of wood into a bowl or a vase lathe, but now he adds a dimension that transforms them into artisan quality heirlooms.

Starting with woods native to the Midwest including oak, walnut, maple and hickory, Sutor then infuses colorful exotic woods such as bloodwood, winge, katalox and purple heart into beautiful and unique forms of art.

In woodworker terminology, the process is known as “segmented turning.” It requires a lot of time, precision cuts, tricky glue techniques and exacting (sometimes exasperating) finishes!

When asked how long it takes to make a bowl or vase, Sutor says “It’s a little bit less than forever!” His wife Karen says that’s okay because now that he

is retired from a pastoral career, he has nothing better to do. His wife also said, “Drew has every tool known to man.” To which Drew’s responded that he is “only one tool away from greatness.”

In addition to bowls and vases and a good sense of humor, Sutor enjoys making rolling pins with checkerboard and swirling designs, inlaid boxes, unique wine bottle and glass holders, wine bottle toppers and urns.

Sutor’s work is on display and for sale at Alliance Art Gallery, 112 N Main, in downtown Hannibal.

As a member of Quincy's Woodworkers Guild, Sutor invites you to attend a meeting, which takes place on the first Monday of each month. Please email quincywoodworkersguild@gmail.com to learn more about becoming a member.