Advancing the art and understanding of fine woodworking!

January 9th Guild Meeting to Feature Scraper Sharpening & Usage 
By Ken Gregg

The program for our January 9th meeting at Woodcraft will focus on wood scrapers -- how to use them and how to sharpen them.  A long-time member of our Guild told me recently that it took
him 20 years to learn how to sharpen a scraper so that it would do what it was supposed to do every time.  Now he uses one all the time.
 
So -- if you want to save 20 years off of your woodworking life and acquire a very useful, cheap tool which you don’t have to plug in, come to the meeting with a scraper, a single cut file typically referred to as a mill bastard (look it up), and a hard flat stone (diamond, if you have one), and a burnisher. 

If you don’t have a burnisher you can use the shaft of a carbide router bit, a valve stem or any very hard polished round tool. 

After we look at a Chris Schwartz video, we will put the chairs away and spend some time at the benches practicing sharpening and using a scraper.  We will need 6 or more facilitators at the benches, so if you can do that, please volunteer.
 
If you don’t own a scraper, Woodcraft will be more than happy to help you, for purchase, of course.

We will also be holding our brief, annual business meeting, and don't forget Show 'N Tell.

The coupon below is a sample of our newsletter advertising for Patron Sponsors.

Your Company Name Here

20% OFF on all veneers
Includes all domestic and exotic in-stock veneers, including pressure sensitive and edge banding.
Valid through 2/28/17. Guild members only. Must present member card.
Click to use coupon or show at checkout
EXPIRED

Annual  Guild  Holiday  Party  &  Show 'N Tell  
December 5th a Great Success

Our Annual Holiday Party on Monday, December 5th was again a quite enjoyable event for around 75 Guild members, including many of their significant others. 

A delicious meal was again catered by Epicurean Endeavors, who certainly know how to prepare and serve a great buffet-style meal for a large group!

 Show 'N Tell, including judging by attendees for the Craftsman and Masters Categories, in addition to a special presentation (see accompanying article) as well as friendly Holiday socializing was enjoyed by all.

There were an abundance of beautiful Show 'N Tell entries, and once again voting was quite challenging.  Following are results of the voting in the two categories:  
  
Masters Category
1st       Gary Fader           Lamp
2nd     Gary Fader           Zig‐Zag Box
3rd      Marvin Miller      Box
Masters Entries
Dave Pisik                Sculpture Sway
Marvin Miller          Boxes

Masters - Display
    Jim Milam                Sideboard Table

Craftsman Category
1st       James Porter         Light House
2nd     John Champion    Tea Caddie
3rd     Charlie Levan          Ornaments
Craftsman Entries
John Jones              Music Stand
Roger Moister         2 Toy Dogs
Roger Moister        Jewelry Box federal style
Tom Melcher           Photo Album Stand
Mark Haugland     Jewelry Box federal style
Chris Parks              Jewelry Box
Art Sanders             Stool
Gary Fjeld                Semi‐Tractor with Trailer
Gary Fjeld                Track hoe
Gary Fjeld                Box
Charles Downey   Quilt Rack
Howard Boone      Doll Bed
Bob Forsthoffer    Workbench
Dianna Daniel       Bowl w/Mason Jar Lid

Great, inspiring work everyone!
If anyone was omitted from this list, our sincere apologies.


 
Jim Milam Receives Guild Lifetime Membership

The numerous Accomplishments and Contributions to the craft of Woodworking by Jim Milam were recognized at the Woodworkers' Guild of Georgia Holiday party, as he was presented Life Membership in the Guild. 

Following are comments by Board member Nuane Neely as he set the stage for the surprise (to Jim) awarding of Life Membership: 
1.  This person has been known to recount: “May worst fear is that my wife will sell my tools for what I said I paid for them.”; “One can never have too many clamps.”; “I’ll be glad to help, and you are welcome to come over to My shop.”

2.  This person has served on the Woodworkers' Guild Board of Directors for several years.

3.  This person has been involved with woodworking for over 50 years with one of his first projects still in use.

4.  A guiding principle for this person is to “SHARE AND SHOW” and he has done so with many other woodworkers.   Indeed, this person has mentored several individuals regarding woodworking both in and outside the Guild.

5.  This Person has instructed woodworking classes on both the use of machinery, how to build select types of furniture and on woodworking techniques.

6.  This person has made presentations to the Guild about the use of certain tools, different types of joinery techniques, turnings, finish and coloring and many other methods.

7.  This person coordinated the Guild’s Spring Symposium for several years.

8.  This person has produced furniture and other projects that are truly inspirational to those of us in the Guild.   We will strive to approach the level of quality that he has completed many times in executing his craft.

9.  This person is also active in SAPFM (Society of American Period Furniture Makers).

10.  Lastly, this person has arranged for this annual Holiday Party for the last few years and he is the reason we are here tonight; and that we have the tables furnished, as you can observe.

The Guild President will now recognize our newest Life Member, Mr. Jim Milam !

Congratulations to Jim for a Very Well-Deserved Honor !

Spring Symposium Scheduled March 17 - 19

Finishing professional Peter Gedrys, who headlined this event 4 years ago, is returning for our annual Spring Symposium.  He will present a slide show of his work on Friday evening the 17th, which is open to all at no charge, followed by the Symposium all day Saturday and Sunday.

Following is general information for the  event. 
Go the the Guild website for a copy of the brochure, as well as registration.

Guild and SAPFM members Register by     2/15/17          $ 85*             
Non-Members Registration Opens after     2/15/17         $ 130  Includes 2017 Guild Membership          
      *Guild  or  SAPFM members
     **Includes full 2017 Guild membership. 

Seating is Limited!
    

Or mail the completed form 
and your check to:
2017 Woodworking Symposium
Woodworkers’ Guild of Georgia
P.O. Box 80750
Atlanta, GA 30366

Friday:           
6:30-8:00 pm Open to the Public, 
                         free admission
           Slide presentation on Peter’s portfolio and Finishing career

Saturday:  
8:30 am Registration
9:00 am Morning Session
Noon Lunch on your own
1:30-5:00 pm Afternoon Session

Sunday:  
9:00 am Morning Session
Noon Lunch on your own
1:30-4:00 pm Afternoon Session

Symposium location:
Woodcraft
8560 Holcomb Bridge Road
Roswell, GA 30022
770-587-3372

2017 Woodworkers' Guild of Georgia Spring Symposium

As a restorer, Peter Gedrys' resume includes eighteenth and nineteenth century furniture of American and Continental origin.  His architectural projects allow him to reproduce the rich colors and patinas usually reserved for fine antiques.  Along with teaching classes in a variety of finishing disciplines, Gedrys regularly contributes finishing articles to Fine Woodworking magazine and is considered to be one of the leading finishers and restoration experts in the Northeast.

The Program:
When building furniture, the craftsman faces various tasks such as wood selection, designing, milling, and joinery.  Yet upon completion it’s only half done.  Then there is the question of finishing.  With all the myths, recipes and formulas, invariably it becomes confusing and intimidating. 

In this symposium a variety of techniques employing dyes, stains, glazes and final finish will be demonstrated.  Glazing, which is a translucent color over a sealed surface is one of the finishers most potent and forgiving techniques.  Since the surface is sealed you can easily remove a glaze while it is still wet. 
 A variety of filling techniques will be also be demonstrated.  This seminar is designed to take the guesswork out of your next finishing project.

Topics to be covered include:
• Surface preparation
• Sanding
• Scraping
• Wash coatings
• To color or not to color
• Stains and dyes
• Layering color
• Creating visual depth
• Choosing the proper finish
• Finishing the finish

    Day One 
Dyes, Stains and Glazing
One of the biggest difference between a professional and amateur finisher is the ability to control their color.  Even those who prefer to finish wood naturally are at odds when faced with glaringly mismatched boards. 
The question becomes "Now what!!"   Arbitrary staining for staining sake rarely produces satisfactory results and now you've lost control. 

This seminar will teach you to control your color not the other way around. A variety of woods will be employed and samples produced. 
This will include, but not be limited to: 

    On Mahogany: 
Antique Golden Brown, 
Red Mahogany 
Bleached to simulate satinwood
 
    On Walnut: 
Early American 
Antique French


    Day Two 
Finishing 
With all the coatings and myths available, choosing a finish is often a challenge.  That's why many have only one finish in their arsenal. This seminar will give you the knowledge and confidence to step outside your comfort zone.
 
We'll cover all the bases with wiping varnishes, waterborne and shellac. Shellac will be given some extra attention and Peter will show you how to get the most out of this very versatile coating. Applications will include brushing and French polishing


Throughout the weekend Peter will take time to discuss the many aspects of Finishing, resulting in an informative lecture for all skill levels. There will be ample time for questions and interaction.

Expect an enjoyable weekend of woodworking, finishing and an exceptional opportunity to enhance your finishing skills. 


Event Notifications (2)    F Y I:

1.  SAPFM  Symposium on Tall Clocks  
           March 11 & 12   
       Open to Guild Members - for Seminar Fee Only
             Details Forthcoming      


2.  Wood Works:  A Regional Exhibition
When:  Opening Reception: January 20, 6 PM to 8 PM.
Exhibit Continues:  January 21-February 17, 2017; Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where:  
             Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation (OCAF)
34 School Street 
Watkinsville GA 30677 
(706) 769-4565, info@ocaf.com 
www.OCAF.com 

Curator:
               Abraham Tesser
               atesser@uga.edu
               706-543-4332
Presenting Sponsor: 
               Highland Woodworking
               www.highlandwoodworking.com

The Southeast is home to some of the finest wood artists and craftsmen in the country. The Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation (OCAF), an arts and culture organization in Northeast Georgia, is mounting a significant show featuring the works of over 35 of the region’s most talented woodworkers. Furniture makers, wood turners, and fine artists will be displaying one-of-a-kind pieces made from exotic woods and veneers, reclaimed lumber, natural edge slabs, and even twigs and bark.  

Wood Works: A Regional Exhibition, an invitational show, will feature furniture, vessels, functional art and sculpture in styles from traditional to extremely innovative and whimsical. Whether you come to look or come to buy you will definitely leave inspired.

The opening reception, free and open to the public, is on January 20, 2017, 6 PM to 8 PM in the main gallery of OCAF at 34 School Street in Watkinsville, GA.  
The exhibit, presented by Highland Woodworking, will continue from January 21 to February 17, Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM 
 For more information   www.OCAF.com


MEMBERSHIP  RENEWAL
There is still time to renew your membership in the Woodworkers’ Guild of Georgia, although Membership Renewal was due by December 31. 
      There are three ways to renew your membership:

(1) Online:  From the Woodworkers’ Guild of Georgia website “wwgofga.com” you will need to login to your account and at the bottom of the profile page you will find the button to begin the process and pay through PayPal.

(2) You can make your renewal payment in cash or check at any meeting of the Guild

(3) You can mail your payment to the Guild:
  Woodworkers' Guild of Georgia 
  P. O. Box 80750
  Atlanta, GA 30366

Links on our Website's Home Page   www.wwgofga.com   have been added to simplify these 
Renewal choices.  
Additionally, take a minute to log in on the website, and check that your User Profile is current. 

Membership dues are the main source of income for the Guild.  Allowing us to hold our meetings and symposiums, maintain our library, provide awards for woodworking contests, provide scholarships, and pay our insurance. 

 Show 'N Tell


Show 'N Tell will again be held at the January 9th Guild
Meeting at Woodcraft.

Bring a project you would like to share.

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Turner’s Group


The 3rd  Monday Turner's Group at Rockler continues to be successful.   As is typical, we had some good discussion.  We all learned quite a bit, picked up a few tips and techniques, and enjoyed each other’s company and feedback. 

If you own a Lathe, if you turn, or if you have any interest in turning – no matter the skill level – please feel free to join us at 6:30 on the 3rd Monday at Rockler!

Woodworkers’ Guild of Georgia
Upcoming  Events  
                                                                                                                                                                                                    
Monday, January 9
Woodcraft  6:30 PM      
     Annual Guild Business Meeting
       Sharpening and Using Scrapers with Ken Gregg
                           and  Show 'N Tell
Monday,  January 16
Rockler 6:30 PM
Turner's Group

Monday, February 13
Woodcraft 6:30 PM
       Marquetry with Rob Milam

March 17, 18 & 19    Annual Spring Symposium
Woodcraft - Sandy Springs
      Finishing with Peter Gedrys

March 31 thru April 2
       Woodworking Show

Monday, April 10
 Woodcraft  6:30 PM
        Rolling Pins and Scholarship Presentation with James Porter

Saturday, May 20
Peach State Lumber - Kennesaw   9:00 AM
     Spring Mini-Symposium
            Routers with Mark Barr

Monday, June 12
Woodcraft 6:30 PM
       Building a Michael Fortune Chair #1  with Andy Wilkerson
                                                                                                                                               
Free Demonstrations

Rockler   6690 Roswell Road / Sandy Springs 
Jan. 7:      11:00     Full Spectrum Laser w/ Rotary Attachment
Jan. 14:    11:00     Time Saving Sanding
Jan. 21:    11:00     Refinishing w/Chalk Style Paint
Jan. 28:    11:00     Drill Press Operations
Feb. 4:      11:00      Joinery:  Box Joint & Dovetail                                                                                                                                                                              
Woodcraft    8560 Holcomb Bridge Road / Roswell   
Jan. 7:      1:00    Basic Bookcase Storage Cubes
Jan. 14:    1:00    Pen Turning
Jan. 21:    1:00   Hand-Carving w/ Christina White
Jan. 28:    1:00   Finishing Curly Maple
Feb. 4:       1:00   Finishing with Milk Paint   
                                       Help Wanted

Rockler Woodworking & Hardware is expanding in the Atlanta area.  With this expansion we have employment opportunities at both our Sandy Springs location and our soon-to-open location in Kennesaw. 
 If you are an avid woodworker or just getting started and want to work in an environment that fosters a continuing education in woodworking, then Rockler is the place for you.
Visit   www.rockler.com   for more information and a full listing of our career opportunities.


                                      For Sale

Brand new!   In the original box!!   And never used!!!     
Stanley Sweetheart No. 62 Low Angle Jack Plane ---- $ 150
Please contact Roger Moister  404-355-5033   or  moisters2@yahoo.com

The Guild Board of Directors

John Nielsen,  President   770-434-3812
Joe Rodriquez,  Treasurer   224-659-2225
Community/Charitable Projects   Open  
Nick Zicchino,  Woodworking Show 2017   770-237-2280
Tom Melcher,  Patron Sponsors    770-851-1098
Nuane Neely,  Spring Symposium 2017   770-922-1933
Tom Risoli,  Website Administrator   678-513-0887
Programs   Open
Gary Fader,  Vice-President, Secretary   770-977-7271
Jim Milam,  Member at Large    404-255-2314
Roger Moister,  Librarian    404-355-5033
Kevin May,  Membership     770-425-8928
Ken Gregg,  Scholarships   678-799-6157
Mark Haugland,  Newsletter   678-294-8043
Jim Wright,  Audio Visual/Member at Large  770-973-4692
John Jones,  Communications   678-576-7265
Gary Fader,   Program Committee Chairman   770-977-7271
Support Your Woodworkers’ Guild of Georgia Patron Sponsors 
Show Them Your Membership Card

Fintech Abrasives  - For over 25 years, Fintech Technologies has been fabricating belts, sheets, rolls and other abrasives. They also have extensive experience with the application of the newest materials in coated abrasives, Family owned and operated in Belding, MI, Fintech is a highly respected company that takes pride in its excellent product quality, unmatched customer service, and superior technical support. Guild members are welcome to order products, as well as contact them with questions. Use their website at www.fintechabrasives.com or call them at 1-888-223-8768. 

Hardwoods Incorporated -  A division of Atlanta Hardwood Corporation, Hardwoods Inc. has grown to become one of the largest hardwood distributors in the Eastern United States. Hardwoods Inc. stocks more than 100 species of domestic and exotic lumber, plywood, Arborite laminates and turning stock. When you think of wood, think of us. Open 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturday. At 5400 Riverview Road, Mableton, 30126. 404.792.0910 www.hardwoodweb.com  

Highland Woodworking -  Providing fine woodworking tools and project supplies since 1978, Highland defines itself as a learning community. The store has attracted nationally known teachers and authors including Tage Frid, Sam Maloof, Michael Dunbar, Rude Osolnik, Toshio Odate, Dale Nish, Mark Duginske and many others in Highland’s ongoing program of seminars and workshops. Their catalog of fine woodworking tools and workshops is available online, or visit its fully-stocked store at 1045 N. Highland Avenue in Atlanta, www.highlandwoodworking.com 404-872-4466. 

Peach State Lumber Products  - We are dealers of high grade/cabinet quality hardwoods, plywood, softwood, veneer and also carry a full line of cabinet grade plywood and turning blocks. We welcome small quantity orders and have a retail sales area open to the public. We also carry Hettich brand hinges and drawer slides. We have hardware screws and pocket hole screws. We now have live edge slabs in multiple species, great for bar tops, mantels, etc. 4000 Moon Station Road, Kennesaw, 30144. www.peachstatelumber.com tel. (770) 428-3622. 

Peachtree Woodworking Supply  - Is a producer and retailer of high quality woodworking products with a goal of providing the woodworker with the hard to find tools and accessories. They stock over 6,000 different woodworking items. Those items include a wide selection of abrasives, books, DVD’s, clamps, router bits, glue, t-track, dust collection, and much more.  Peachtree also carries the major brands. The store is located at 6684 Jimmy Carter Blvd. Suite 100; Norcross, GA 30071   (770) 458-5539.  Store Hours: Mon – Fri 9 am.- 5 p.m.; Sat 9 am - 3 pm. www.ptreeusa.com 

Redmond Machinery  - Specializes in new and used woodworking and metal working machinery in a 25,000 square foot showroom. We stock machinery, accessories, and supplies from top-name manufacturers. Bargain hunters, check out our large inventory of used and scratch and dent machinery and accessories. We are a source for older American made Powermatic and Delta parts. We invite Guild members to stop by to visit us. We are located at 58 Weldon Rd.,  Palmetto, GA 30268   (770) 683-7297  (800) 428-9898   www.redmondmachinery.com 

Rockler Woodworking and Hardware  - We started as mail order woodworking supply company and today the retail chain stretches across the United States. Our magazine, Woodworker’s Journal, is dedicated to offering plans, techniques, product reviews and tips to woodworkers. Our goal is to be your go-to woodworking resource. We invite you to visit us at 6690 Roswell Road in Sandy Springs. Hours are Monday-Friday 9 am to 7 pm, Saturday 9 am to 6 pm, and Sunday 11 am to 4 pm. On Saturdays we have free demos.       Phone: 404-460-1000. www.rockler.com/retail/stores/ga/sandy-springs-store  

Suwanee Lumber Company –  Is a specialty hardwood supplier for custom cabinet and furniture makers as well as the general public. Suwanee features hardwood lumber with matching plywood and other materials to make every project a work of art. Please show your Guild membership card when shopping their location at 450 Highway 23 in Suwanee, GA   (770) 945-2102 or (800) 330-8087.  
Mailing address is P.O. Box 248,  Suwanee, GA 30024    www.suwaneelumber.com 

Woodcraft  (Two Locations)  –  Has been a woodworker's favorite source for quality hand and power tools, equipment and supplies (including wood). Cabinet makers, wood turners, carvers and woodworkers in general rely on our friendly, experienced staff that is always available to help with the selection of tools and supplies as well as to provide helpful advice on individual projects. We have fully equipped classroom facilities. Stop by our store at 8560 Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell, GA   Phone: 770-587-3372  OR our West side Store at 351 Thornton Road in Lithia Springs. GA 30122  Phone:  770-485-5636.
woodcraft.com/stores/503/woodcraft-of-atlanta/aspx 

The Woodworkers' Guild of Georgia Newsletter is published monthly, and is provided to all Guild members.  
The Newsletter, and its archived copies, is posted on our website.
It is also available 24/7 on our Newsletter URL   wwgga.tlehs.com

If you are interested in contributing an article or placing an ad, please contact Mark at  markare49@gmail.com

The Guild welcomes everyone interested in fine woodworking to join.  Annual membership dues are $45.00, 
which can be paid at the monthly meeting (2nd Mondays) or mailed to:
Woodworkers' Guild of Georgia /  P.O. Box 80750  /  Atlanta, GA  30366

You may also pay dues using PayPal at   wwgofga.com

Enjoy Your Newsletter.  We welcome your feedback below.