v     The first factor is the age of the tree. Obviously trees that are 100 years old are not as readily available as those twenty or thirty years old, and therefore the issue of supply and demand drives the cost of old growth bowls higher.

v     The next consideration involves the size of the tree. Some trees grow very rapidly and therefore getting trees big enough to produce large diameter bowls is relatively easy, whereas other trees grow very slowly and therefore a large bowl turned from a slow growing tree would cost a bit more.

v     The rarity of certain woods or oddities such as burls, spalting, and changes in color and texture due to natural events that may occur very slowly can drive the cost of a bowl upward.

v     The enclosed or hollow forms and other vase shapes can take three to four times longer to turn as opposed to wide mouthed bowls simply because the lathe must be turned on and off constantly to remove the shavings in these deep vessels.  Removing the shavings often requires compressed air and other hook tools, adding to the total time required to turn the piece of art.

v     Another consideration is the time spent on the specific finish. Some finishes can be applied in a few minutes and be completely done; others require days and often weeks to complete. A fine oil or lacquer finish often requires twelve or more coats of finish, enough time (often a week or more) for the finish to cure, then a lot of hand work leveling the finish and buffing it to the desired sheen.

v     The last and perhaps the most relevant issue to cost is the ultimate quality of the work. The character of the wood and the skill of the craftsman merge to form signature pieces that will either stand up under the scrutiny of the professional eye or not. Regardless of the flashy character of any piece of wood, a poor curve that changes speed irregularly will ruin even the finest of wood. We welcome your discerning eyes and valuable comments.