Blind man learns to be a woodworker via YouTube

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48-year-old Chris Fisher from England has learned the craft of woodturning using only YouTube videos for guidance. Even more remarkable is the fact the Chris is completely blind.

In 2008, Fisher lost his sight due to toxoplasmosis, a parasitic disease that can be contracted from animal waste. He embarked on a period of rehabilitation that allowed him to learn how to live day to day as a blind person.

He previously worked as an engineer and harbored dreams of becoming a woodworker, Fisher turned to YouTube in order to help him hone in on his craft.

Before purchasing his own kit and making the first cut, Fisher spent 480 hours listening to videos and tutorials online.

Fisher showing off his woodwork. /VCG Photo

Woodturning has helped Fisher gain more focus as he uses hand-held tools to shape a piece of wood while it rotates on a mechanical lathe. He can create bowls, candlesticks, goblets and other items.

In 2013, Fisher decided to pass on his technique by launching The Blind Wood Turner, a YouTube channel of his own. On the channel, Fisher shares tips and tricks, reviews products, and also shares insights into his experiences as a blind woodworker.

He tells people that being blind has potentially made him safer than a seeing woodworker since he has learned to be extra cautious.

Check out an introductory video to Fisher’s channel, which has amassed 4,000 subscribers to date, below. In addition to his video work, Fisher also regularly travels across the UK to speak about his experiences and host public woodturning demos.