2025 11 Newsletter

Sawdust from the Prez

One of the first projects I brought to a Des Moines Woodworkers Association meeting for Show and Tell was this tool tote. Built with the help of a class taught by Phil Huber, the tote featured rabbet joints, wrought nails, and a worn, two-layer milk paint finish. 

I felt pretty good about how it turned out, but the decision to bring it for Show and Tell was a big gulp. I rated myself a beginner in the craft. Other woodworkers had brought fancy inlay work, detailed scale models, segmented turnings with computer calculated angles. Would my offering be acceptable? 

Despite my misgivings, I did bring the tote and place it on the Show and Tell table. To my relief, no Commissar of Quality was on hand rejecting unworthy efforts. Though I was voice-shaky nervous, I did manage to say a few things into the microphone about building the project, like getting my first exposure to a router plane. 

Afterwards, during the break, people came up to take a look, and one of the members, who from his previous Show and Tell presentations struck me as one of the pros of the club, said something to me that I may treasure forever: “Those look like tight joints.”

I share this memory to encourage those hesitant to bring a project for Show and Tell. No commissar. All skill levels welcome. We’d love to see your project. We’d love to hear something you learned, something you ran into and worked through, something in the woodworking that gave you joy, or made you want to tear out your hair.

And for those who are on the observing end of Show and Tell, know that your interest and your comments can offer encouragement. Notice something positive in the project and say so. Ask a we’re-all-still-learning question. Thank the one showing and telling for bringing their work.

Show and Tell. It’s a way we cheer each other on. We have another opportunity at our November 20 gathering. Scout Center. 7 PM. I hope to see you there!

Ken Rummer, President