Who We Are

Master Designer Bill Turpin has studied the art of working with raw wood for more than three decades. However, his love for turning wood to create design pieces for the home is a new one, realized only after retirement.

With more time to cultivate his craft, Bill’s pieces have become refined pieces of art that rival all other décor in the home.



With his wife, Linda, as owner and operator of Turpin Hollow, Bill is able to dedicate his full time to his craft, creating beautiful wood pieces and caned furniture for the home.



Bill likes to say that his “shop,” or design studio, is always open. So if you find yourself in the Hollow, please stop by for a cold beverage and a tour of this amazing artwork of a bygone era. Just don’t forget to bring a treat for Turpin Hollow Mascot, Shaggy Duke.



Bill is a member of the AAW ( American Association of Woodturners), and the Blue Ridge Woodturners (local club) of Fincastle, Va.

What is Wood Turning?

Wood turning is a form of wood working that is used to create wooden objects on a lathe. Wood turning differs from most other forms of woodworking in that the wood is moving while a stationary tool is used to cut and shape it. Many intricate shapes and designs can be made by turning wood.



There are two distinct methods of turning wood: spindle turning and faceplate turning. In spindle turning, the grain of the wood runs lengthwise, parallel to the bed of the lathe. In face plate turning, the grain of the wood runs perpendicular to the axis of rotation. Most bowls, platters and many vessels are face plate turned. Pens, furniture legs, spindles and some vessels are spindle turned. It is the orientation of the grain that determines the method in use. Spindle turning is named for the type of product originally produced, while faceplate turning is named for an early method of attaching the material to the lathe.



The distinction between spindle turning and faceplate turning is due to the fibrous nature of the

material. When wood is cut in such a way that the fiber being cut is not supported by the fiber below it, it tends to separate and tear. This "tearout" exhibits a rough, highly undesirable surface texture and greatly reduces the value of any product exhibiting it. The direction of cut is different in spindle turning and faceplate turning because cutting in the wrong direction can cause tearout. Spindle turning cuts are made from high points toward the axis on the outside of the piece, and from the axis toward the outside when hollowing. When faceplate turning, the opposite applies.

Information courtesy of Wikipedia

What is Chair Caning?

Chair caning is the art of weaving rattan into various patterns to form wicker. Caning can be used to make furniture or repair antique wicker which has broken or has become shabby. There are various types of patterns and styles that the rattan can be woven into. Bill Turpin of Turpin Hollow can help restore your antique wicker to it's original beauty, get in touch with him to discuss your next project or view some of our caned items in our shop.

Thanks for Stopping By!