My hobby is wood turning. i am studying the classical orders in order to learn how to develop pleasing columnar turnings. my question is this: is there a "right/wrong" or "do & don't" way of using/assembling molding profiles to create a complete column?
replied to: jlroch
Replied to: My hobby is wood turning. i am studying the classical orders...
My feeling is that it depends on exactly what you want to achieve.
If you want to create something that looks like a classic column, then there definitely is a right way to do it, but it may only work visually if you can also match the scale and proportions, and maybe also colour and texture.
If you want to create something more contemporary, then you are free to do what ever you want. Whether it looks good will depend on your use of the standard design elements - colour, texture, line, mark, form - and their organisation - repetition, rhythm, a/symmetry, focal emphasis.
Given that 'classical orders' refer to architecture, unless you are working at the same scale, your main challenge will be to decide what essentials of Greek architecture you can use, and those that aren't applicable to what you are doing.
You may want to check out some of my blog posts:
http://www.seafoamwoodturning.com/TheToolrest/2005/11/stair-spindles.html
http://www.seafoamwoodturning.com/TheToolrest/2007/03/design-resources.html
http://www.seafoamwoodturning.com/TheToolrest/2007/02/repetition-as-design-element.html
