About Us

My number one priority is the satisfaction of my clients, many of whom turn into friends and woodworking colleagues. I look forward to exceeding the expectations of everyone I have the pleasure to work with.

My name is Ken Rude, owner of Branches to Bowls Ltd living in Calgary, AB. I have been working with wood on and off since I made 7 birdhouses when about 9-10 years old. 2009, I started woodturning with an old lathe I found on Kijiji, to see if I enjoyed working on a lathe like I thought I remembered from High School shop class.

After a couple years of chasing the vibrating lathe around the shop, it was time to upgrade. After looking at the available options I decided on looking for a used Vicmarc lathe, finally after about 6 months I found the only used one, a VL300, in the world 10 minutes from home. It was in my shop within 24 hours. I spent many, many satisfied hours working on my Vicmarc VL300.  In 2016 Branches to Bowls began to carry Vicmarc lathes and accessories for Canada.  Now we are happy to represent them across North America. 

I believe quality tools make it easier to do excellent work with greater satisfaction.  That’s why when Carter and Son Toolworks Ltd approached me to represent them in Canada, we were excited to add them to our product line. 

Our customers were asking about carbide tips.  When seeking a solution for them we met Hunter Tool Systems not only do they provide a quality carbide tip that are designed as cutters we share similar values for our businesses. 

PlanetPlus / Rotur recognized our commitment to quality products and approached us to carry their line.  They have a broad selection of quality turning tools to make your experience with wood fun, with tools that will last.  We are proud to join their family.

GluBoost and wood like each other and adding a quality adhesive product option for our customers was a no brainer.