Success Story

"Hi.

Just read your article in this regard. I started a Woodworkers' association in our area seven years ago - I'm still chairman and hoping someone will take over! Did it through the local press and we are now 30 strong. The woodturners club is an offshoot of this - just naturally birthed itself, so I would suggest that prospective "chairman" see if there isn't an ordinary association that they can tap into. Most turners are versatile enough to have a broader interest in woodwork.

We have monthly meetings. We are all beginners/beginnerish so the chairman (not me, thank goodness) sets a project for next month's meeting. At the following meeting we display our attempts and friendly criticism/praise takes place. Any problems are discussed and the way each tackled the task and the finish applied is discussed. This usually highlights something that needs practical demonstration so the next item on the agenda is practical on the lathe. We then discuss next month's project (the chairman produces the prototype he has prepared in advance and points out any potential difficulties).

And in this way a lovely evening passes and a great deal is learned. Incidentally we do meet at a member's home - he has a big, tidy workshop! Clubs/Associations are the way to go so I like your thinking. Knowledge and, very important, fellowship.

Rob Bing
South Coast Association of Woodworkers
Port Shepstone
KwaZulu Natal
South Africa"

Back to Starting a Club