Popular Woodworking Editors' Blog

For this year's Woodworking in America conference (Oct. 1-3 in Greater Cincinnati), we've made a few changes for the better. If you've at least glanced at the class list (available below as a PDF), you've likely noticed that each day is jam-packed. What you don't see on the schedule is any mention of hands-on sessions. That because ALL of the sessions include a hands-on component, should you choose to participate. Here's how it works:

Most instructors have their own rooms where they'll set up shop, and with a couple exceptions (noted on the class list), they'll be in the same room for the entire conference. Looking for the Frank Klausz session? Simply head to Room 4; he'll be there the entire time. Want to avoid Christopher Schwarz? Stay away from Room 3.

Each class lasts about 50 minutes. Following that "formal" presentation, there's an informal 50-minute hands-on session so you can stick around and try your hand at what you’ve just learned. Each classroom will be stocked with benches, wood and a modest set of tools. We encourage you, however, to bring your own tools if feasible – particularly for the planing sessions, saw sharpening sessions and the like – after all, why not get expert guidance using and tuning the tools you own? We'd prefer you didn't bring your band saw or table saw – we'll have some available on which to practice. And rest assured – the power equipment is not in the same rooms as the hand tools. You'll be able to hear the snick of the plane blades just fine...or the whir of a perfectly tuned power saw if that's your druthers.

When you register (and registration will be open very soon at WoodworkingInAmerica.com), we'll ask you to "sign up" for classes – that's only so we can get an idea of how many people to expect in each session – you’re free to move among seminars and hands-on sessions at will (though if a session is full, those who registered for it will get the seats) – and of course, visit the marketplace whenever you like between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, just in case you inadvertently "forgot" to bring your tools and "need" to buy some new ones.

— Megan Fitzpatrick

Monday, May 10, 2010 9:09:08 AM (Eastern Daylight Time, UTC-04:00)    Comments [9]