Turning for Empty Bowls

2026 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. We are looking forward to announcing this year's chosen charity soon!

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.

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 Raleigh Convention Center; June 4 - 7

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!