Nick Agar – Master Woodturner
Professional woodturner and teacher
Nick Agar found his passion for wood long before he touched a lathe. As a forester, he learned to appreciate the stories trees could tell. When a back injury shifted his career, he turned his focus to woodturning, shaping new stories through his craft. Today, stationed just outside Savannah, Georgia, Nick creates stunning pieces and shares his knowledge with students across the globe, fueled by a love for precision, creativity, and the timeless beauty of wood.
Nick shares his story, how he got into woodturning, his process, and his relationship to sharp woodturning tools.
A Career Shaped by Nature and Craftsmanship
Nick Agar’s journey into woodworking began in the forests, where he spent years as a forester. Surrounded by the beauty of trees and the outdoors, he developed a deep appreciation for timber and nature. However, a back injury redirected his path, transforming him into a full-time craftsman and wood artist.
With an innate passion for working with wood, Nick embarked on an apprenticeship in woodturning, crafting production kitchenware and honing his skills. Over the past 35 years, he has built an incredible career as a professional woodworker and artist, traveling the world, meeting like-minded craftsmen, and sharing his expertise. His work is a reflection of his love for the material and the endless possibilities it offers.
The Lasting Relationship with Tormek
Nick Agar’s relationship with Tormek tools has been a defining aspect of his career. His introduction to Tormek came through the founder Torgny Jansson, whose dedication to the sharpening craft left a profound impression on Nick. A memorable discussion during the Woodturning Cruise in Norway further deepened his appreciation for the innovation behind Tormek’s products, leading to a lasting influence on his sharpening techniques.
Nick's favorite Tormek jig's, the SVD-186 R Gouge Jig and the SVS-50 Multi Jig, are integral to his work. These tools allow him to achieve precision and repeatability, essential for sharpening spindle and bowl gouges. The DF-250 Diamond Wheel Fine is his go-to for most tasks, supported by an array of other diamond wheels and a SB-250 Blackstone Silicone. All his Tormek T-8 machines are thoughtfully mounted on TS-740 Sharpening Station to ensure the perfect height for sharpening.
Tormek’s comprehensive system offers a seamless way to achieve the sharpest edges for Nick, making it an invaluable tool not only for his own work but also in his teaching and demonstrations.
Wisdom for Fellow Craftspeople
Nick shares three key pieces of advice for those passionate about sharpening and woodworking:
- Discover the Joy of Precision: Utilize Tormek’s versatile accessories to unlock the full potential of perfectly sharpened tools.
- Experiment with Angles: Read the instructions carefully, but don’t hesitate to customize bevel angles to suit personal preferences and project needs.
- Document the Process: Maintain a record of jig settings, tool protrusions, and universal support positions for quick and easy resharpening. And never forget the importance of honing for that final touch.
Philosophy and Approach to The Craft
Nick’s approach to woodworking is grounded in a deep understanding of his materials and tools. He emphasizes the importance of sharp edges and precise angles, considering them the foundation of exceptional craftsmanship.
An advocate of exploration and innovation, Nick believes that keeping an open mind allows craftsmen to push the boundaries of what’s possible. For him, the pursuit of the sharpest edge is not just a technical challenge but an essential part of the creative process.
What's Next for Nick Agar?
Nick’s love for teaching and sharing his passion for sharp tools remains a central focus of his work. His travels have inspired countless craftspeople, and his ever-growing collection of over 60 axes, ranging from vintage treasures to working tools, reflects his dedication to the craft. Tormek’s new AX-40 Axe Jig has enabling him to maintain even his largest and most uniquely shaped axes.
Looking ahead, Nick is excited to establish a private woodturning and carving retreat in Scandinavia. The vision of spending snowy winters in a warm, secluded cabin, focused on personal projects and artistic exploration, inspires his next chapter.
For Nick Agar, the journey of craftsmanship is never-ending. Every sharp edge and every new creation is a step toward deeper mastery and a testament to the endless possibilities that woodworking offers. Life, for Nick, is about celebrating this journey—and sharing it with the world.
The Viking Bowl
Nick draws inspiration from many forms. Whether it is pottery, organic forms, or just being in nature he can find ways to create pieces that combine these elements. However, his biggest influence is ancient culture, specifically, vikings. Nick's Viking Sunset Bowl shows just how he is able to combine his woodworking skills and professional artistry to create such a gorgeous piece.
The shield Nick made specially for Tormek's USA office
Nick Agar Studio Classes
Nick offers classes in his studio (located just outside of Savannah, GA) that cover a wide variety of topics. These include carving, pyrography, airbrushing, and of course wood turning. Each student is equipped with their own station that all include your own sharpening station with a Tormek and jigs to sharpen your tools during the class.
Be sure to check out his website to book your class
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