Turning for Empty Bowls

2025 AAW Symposium:

Each year at the AAW International Woodturning Symposium, AAW members donate wood turned bowls (and other turned items) they have created to the Empty Bowls project. The bowls are sold during the Symposium to raise money for a nonprofit selected by the chapter hosting the event. Large or small, each bowl costs only $25. One hundred percent of the proceeds this year will support the Fireweed Community Woodshop, a workshop that empowers women and marginalized genders through the art of woodcraft.

“Fireweed Community Woodshop provides a space for students to learn at their own pace with supportive instructors and staff. Our instructors are sensitive to the needs of each student, and strive to support different learning styles and entry points into craft without expectations or assumptions. We believe that vulnerability is an asset to learning. We create a space where students are free to ask questions, to explore, and to share their personal experience. Our Inclusive, non-competitive, and exploration-centered approach fosters community and individual growth."

Fireweed believes that woodworking education and practice should be as accessible as possible. They offer financial access for students to help lower some of the financial barriers to accessing courses.

Learn more about Fireweed Community Woodshop.

How you can help:

You can be a part of this wonderful effort by donating your turned bowls to the Symposium. They can be any shape, size, or type of wood! Please keep in mind that every bowl will be listed at $25. Also, it does not have to be a bowl. Other turners have brought pens and other turned items valued at $25.

You can drop donations off at the Instant Gallery check-in at the Symposium, or if you won't be attending the symposium, you can ship them in advance by filling out this form. Once the form has been submitted, you will receive the shipping address. Please ship your items to arrive between May 12 and June 5.

FAQs:

Should I sign/date my bowl?

Signing and dating your bowl is a nice extra touch. People who buy your bowl will appreciate knowing who created it. Your bowl might become someone’s family heirloom.

What size is accepted, and can I donate more than one?

Bowls of every size are appreciated and there is no limit to the number of bowls you can donate. The more the merrier!

How do I buy a bowl?

Visit the Gallery Hall at the AAW Woodturning Symposium June 12-15 at the Saint Paul RiverCentre in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

How many bowls can I buy?

There is no limit to the number of bowls you can purchase. Please purchase as many bowls as you like; they make excellent gifts!

Can I use a credit card to buy a bowl?

Yes, Empty Bowls accepts cash, credit, or debit cards.

We thank turners like you for making this program a success!