Our Club’s History

The Quad Cities Woodturners began in 2003 with a group of individuals meeting to learn the art of turning wood on a lathe.  In 2004, the club was incorporated in Scott County, Iowa.  In 2005, the club filed for and received its status as a 501 (C)(3) non-profit. In 2008, the club moved to its current location at 2324 3rd Ave in downtown Rock Island, IL.  Club members donated thousands of hours renovating the building to serve the club’s needs.  The building is leased from the City of Rock Island for $1 per year, with the club paying the property taxes, utilities, and insurance.  The building consists of two rooms.  The first is a large classroom with a lathe for demonstration. The second is a large workshop with approximately 12 lathes, other large tools, and a photo booth for use by the membership.

The club holds monthly meetings that consist of a business update, a public critique of artist submissions, a raffle, and a 30 to 60-minute demonstration or presentation on a woodturning topic (3rd Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m.).  The club is also open twice per week for use by the membership (Non-holiday Mondays and Thursdays from about 9:30-2).  Members use the shop to collaborate with others or work alone.  Mentors are available during the open shop times to teach and guide novice turners.  At least once a year, we host an all-day Saturday event focused on new turners. 

The club also demonstrates at public events that promote the arts.  Some of our members have had their work displayed in art museums and galleries nationwide.

The club has members that reside in the following Iowa Counties: Scott, Dubuque, Clinton, Lynn, Johnson, Jones, and Jackson.  The club has members that reside in the following Illinois Counties: Rock Island, Mercer, Henry, Whiteside, Warren, and Lee.

We invite you to join us remotely even if you don’t live nearby.

Our current annual membership rate is $50. We offer a discount for students and additional family members!