Nick Agar – Master Woodturner
Professional woodturner and teacher
In memory of Nick Agar – a longtime friend of Tormek who sadly passed away too soon.
Nick Agar had found his passion for wood long before he ever touched a lathe. As a forester, he had 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. Stationed just outside Savannah, Georgia, Nick created stunning pieces and shared his knowledge with students across the globe, fueled by a love for precision, creativity, and the timeless beauty of wood.
In this video 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, crafted production kitchenware, and honed his skills. Over the course of 35 years, he built an incredible career as a professional woodworker and artist, traveled the world, met like-minded craftsmen, and shared his expertise. His work was a reflection of his love for the material and the endless possibilities it offered.
The Lasting Relationship with Tormek
Nick Agar’s relationship with Tormek tools was 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, were integral to his work. These tools allowed him to achieve precision and repeatability, essential for sharpening spindle and bowl gouges. The DF-250 Diamond Wheel Fine was 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 were thoughtfully mounted on TS-740 Sharpening Stations to ensure the perfect height for sharpening.
Tormek’s comprehensive system offered 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 shared 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 was grounded in a deep understanding of his materials and tools. He emphasized the importance of sharp edges and precise angles, considering them the foundation of exceptional craftsmanship.
An advocate of exploration and innovation, Nick believed that keeping an open mind allowed craftsmen to push the boundaries of what was possible. For him, the pursuit of the sharpest edge was not just a technical challenge but an essential part of the creative process.
An Inspiring Visionary
Nick’s love for teaching and sharing his passion for sharp tools remained a central focus of his work. His travels inspired countless craftspeople, and his ever-growing collection of over 60 axes, ranging from vintage treasures to working tools, reflected his dedication to the craft. Tormek’s new AX-40 Axe Jig enabled him to maintain even his largest and most uniquely shaped axes.
Nick had looked forward to establishing 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, had inspired his next chapter.
For Nick Agar, the journey of craftsmanship was never-ending. Every sharp edge and every new creation was a step toward deeper mastery and a testament to the endless possibilities that woodworking offered. Life, for Nick, was about celebrating this journey — and sharing it with the world.
The Viking Bowl
Nick drew inspiration from many forms. Whether it was pottery, organic forms, or simply being in nature, he found ways to create pieces that combined these elements. However, his biggest influence was ancient culture — specifically, Vikings. Nick's Viking Sunset Bowl showed just how he was 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 offered classes in his studio (located just outside of Savannah, GA) that covered a wide variety of topics. These included carving, pyrography, airbrushing, and of course woodturning. Each student was equipped with their own station, each including a sharpening station with a Tormek and jigs to sharpen their tools during the class.
In memory of Nick Agar, this text was updated to reflect his passing. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the beauty he brought into the world.