Create something with your own hands!
Step into the world of woodturning, where each turn of the lathe unveils stories of transformation.
Woodturning Workshops for Adults and Youth
Discover the art of woodturning in a safe, hands-on studio with Marine veteran instructor Ernesto Aquino. From adult classes and private lessons to multi-week youth programs for grades 6–12, there’s something for every skill level. Veterans can also enjoy free sessions through our Workshops for Warriors program. All tools and materials are included—browse our programs and reserve your spot today!
Adult Workshops
Kick off your woodturning journey with a fun 90-minute beginner pen or small-project class, sharpen your skills with private one-on-one coaching, and then take on the challenge of advanced bowl making—all in our Fallbrook studio. Check the schedule today and claim your spot!
Youth Workshops
Give your child an enriching experience beyond the classroom. Starting with fun 90-minute projects—such as Pens, Honey Dippers, and Dry Flower vase—our 6- or 8-Week Courses are designed to strengthen creativity, safety awareness, and technical skills. Students gain a strong foundation in craftsmanship and design while learning patience and precision. All materials are included, and weekend classes make it convenient for families.
Workshops for Veterans
Step into a space built for you. Our free pen-making Workshops for Warriors offer veterans, active duty, and retirees the chance to connect, create, and heal through woodturning. Join fellow warriors in a community that understands and supports you.
Making wood chips Fly at Our Fallbrook Studio
At Warrior Oak Woodturning, we’re proud to announce our new Fallbrook studio for hands-on woodturning classes.
Join Ernesto, as you shape local and exotic hard woods in a light-filled creative space. Experience everything from pen turning sessions to advanced bowl making workshops, all guided by Ernesto’s expert hand. Reserve your spot by filling out your interest form here 
Find Us Here
Our studio is located at: 1404 El Nido Dr in Fallbrook, CA.
From the North:
Take I-5 S, merge onto CA-76 E, turn right on S Mission Rd, turn left on Winter Haven Rd, turn right on El Nido Dr.
From the South:
Take I-5 N, merge onto CA-76 E, turn right on S Mission Rd, turn left on Winter Haven Rd, turn right on El Nido Dr.
From the East:
Take CA-76 W, turn left on S Mission Rd, turn left on Winter Haven Rd, turn right on El Nido Dr.
From the West:
Take CA-76 E, turn right on S Mission Rd, turn left on Winter Haven Rd, turn right on El Nido Dr.
Recent Masterpieces
Delve into our gallery of recent works. Each piece, from pens crafted from historic battleship teak to bowls shaped from the heart of curly maple, narrates a journey of resilience and artistry.
The Heart of Warrior Oak
Our Story
Warrior Oak Woodturning, founded by Ernesto Aquino, a decorated Marine, is more than a brand—it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of transformation. Ernesto’s journey began with his return from Afghanistan in 2012, leading him to discover the therapeutic power of woodturning.
The San Diego Woodturners’ Turn Around for Veterans Program was a pivotal point in his journey, shaping not just wood, but his path to recovery.
WoW embodies this spirit, transforming military scrap and reclaimed woods into pieces of history, art, and healing.
Ernesto Aquino
The Artist Behind the Craft
Ernesto Aquino’s story is one of courage, both on the battlefield and in the face of personal challenges. While on his fifth combat deployment, Ernesto was medevacked back to the U.S., where he found solace in the art of woodturning.
His approach is intuitive and respectful; he ‘lets the wood talk’, allowing each piece to shape its destiny, much like his own journey. Ernesto’s work is deeply personal, often using historic materials like World War II-era woods and teak from battleships, infusing each creation with a piece of history.
Extending beyond the lathe—Ernesto is passionate about sharing his craft with fellow veterans, offering a pathway to recovery and artistic expression.
In the Artist's Words
Discover the insights and wisdom of Ernesto Aquino. Here, Ernesto shares his reflections on overcoming challenges, the art of creation, and the healing journey of woodturning.
