Among the wood shavings and smooth whirl of the lathe, Roland Pimm finds his relaxation. Retired in 1998, this Hattiesburg-area resident began woodturning as a way to pass the time, and has become well known throughout the Pine Belt for his wooden creations.

Pimm had no previous experience “turning wood” on a lathe, but a man with whom he worked got him interested in the distinctly southern art form. His interest was piqued after he saw the Magnolia Wood Turners at work, which persuaded him to try turning wood himself.

Upon becoming a member of the American Association of Wood Turners, Pimm jumped immediately into the art. He meets with this association, made up of wood turners from Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama, once a month to learn new styles and techniques in woodturning. One of the most fulfilling aspects of woodturning is that a beautiful piece of art can be created from “debris” in a neighbor’s woodpile, says Pimm.

Pimm works in many woods native to Mississippi, and exotic woods from time to time. Cherry, sweet gum, magnolia, pecan, hickory, maple, pear, and walnut are popular varieties for turning, but cherry is his favorite. Cherry presents a challenge because the wood naturally tends to split, but once the piece is made, according to Pimm, it is really beautiful.

The most difficult, and most stunning, projects that Pimm finishes are “deep hollow vessels” that can be up to 14 inches tall. With sides only ¾ inch thick, it takes great precision, skill, and patience to complete a vase of this shape.

Some of Pimm’s most popular designs can be seen at The Hattiesburg Logo Shop in the Hattiesburg Visitors Center. Drop by to see bowls, ink pens, and curios carved from wood right out of South Mississippi’s own backyard, Monday through Friday 9-5:30 and Saturday 9-5. Call 601-296-7475 for more information.