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One reason I love the annual Christmas Ornament Challenge is the diversity of creativity that jumps out at me as I view the challenge submissions.

From novice to confident to expert, the opportunity to see how others have taken a simple concept – an ornament – to such a level of talent.

In this case, an ornament from last year cited my Faux Sea Urchin as inspiration. But, if I trace the inspiration for the Faux Sea Urchin, I see many real sea urchin ornaments plus the bat form from Max Brosi. On a similar thread, the pumpkin from a couple of weeks ago, was inspired by the Faux Sea Urchin as reported by a viewer who sent me his picture. That pumpkin, in turn, together with the ornament from last year, has inspired this ornament.

These also derive from a basic skill, the ability to turn a perfect sphere. I am often asked, “what do you do with a sphere”. Well, all these used the octagon method for turning a perfect sphere. Plus many more. That is another great story.

See also Woodturning Perfect Spheres – For Wise Turners

Enjoy!

This year’s Christmas Ornament Challenge opened November 1st. Be ready! There is something for everyone who enters.