Exploring Woodturning in St. Paul with Mike Hunter of Hunter Tools
- alexa2330
- Apr 8
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 9
The 2025 AAW International Woodturning Symposium will be held in St. Paul, Minnesota, a city with a deep connection to woodworking. Mike Hunter of Hunter Tools, a local vendor and woodturning enthusiast who you will find in the AAW Symposium tradeshow, shares insights on why Saint Paul is the perfect setting for this event, his personal journey in woodturning, and what he’s most looking forward to at this year’s symposium.
Saint Paul's Woodworking History
St. Paul’s deep-rooted woodworking history stretches back to the White Pine logging era of the 1800s. The St. Croix River, the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin, was once lined with sawmills that processed massive logs into usable timber. Many historic buildings in the area still feature large timber beams showcasing this legacy, and they’re worth visiting while you’re in town for the symposium. Saint Paul is also the home of AAW's headquarters and the Gallery of Wood Art at the Landmark Center, just a short walk from the RiverCentre.
Mike's Woodturning Journey
For Mike Hunter, woodturning has been a lifelong passion. Like many, his first introduction to the craft was in high school. After stepping away for some years, he rekindled his interest later in life by purchasing a small lathe and joining the Minnesota Woodturners Association. This organization, along with Minnesota’s vibrant woodturning community, played a significant role in his growth as a woodturner.
Minnesota’s entrepreneurial ecosystem also played a role in Mike’s journey as a woodturning vendor. The University of Minnesota hosts an emerging business event that offers grants to new organizations. While Hunter Tools was not a finalist, the process of developing a business plan for the committee review proved invaluable. Each year, Mike revisits and refines that plan to adapt to woodturning's evolving needs and opportunities.
The Draw of the AAW Symposium
What keeps Mike coming back to the AAW Symposium year after year? For him, it’s all about the connections.
“I enjoy the give and take conversations with the Woodturning Community. Each year, I can be compared to the little boy waiting for his birthday party as I look forward to the symposium and the re-acquaintance of old friends. I enjoy talking to the woodturners about their current projects.”
Mike's Must-Visit Spots for Attendees
Beyond the symposium, St. Paul offers plenty to explore. Whether you're interested in history, science, or great food, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of Mike’s top recommendations:
Museums & Attractions
The Landmark Center & Gallery of Wood Art – A must-visit for woodturning enthusiasts.
Minnesota History Center – A deep dive into the state’s fascinating past.
Minnesota Children’s Museum – A great stop for families.
Science Museum of Minnesota – Featuring hands-on exhibits and an Omnitheater.
Dining Recommendations
The Saint Paul Grill – Classic American fare.
Kincaid’s Fish, Chop, and Steakhouse – A refined dining experience.
Meritage – French cuisine in a charming setting.
Cossetta’s – A three-story Italian marketplace not to be missed.
El Burrito Mercado – Authentic Mexican with live mariachi music.
Mickey’s Diner – A classic railroad dining car experience.
The City House – A restored grain elevator with a scenic patio on the river.
