In looking at the Cumberland Furniture Guild’s
schedule for the year, I find myself excited at the progress that has been made
and look forward to more opportunities for all the members in 2015. We have
four incredible business members, Woodcraft, Mimms Lumber, Good Wood Nashville, and Fort Houston, all providing opportunities, meeting spaces, and
support for our members. The schedule includes four meetings, three
socials and one show! They will afford many opportunities to
share, learn and enjoy time with other talented woodworkers in Middle
Tennessee.
In the past year we made a number of changes including improving
our website, adding a blog, getting on Facebook, holding two
shows, providing a lecture and workshop with author and artist, Jeff
Miller, enjoying social time, and participating in community service.
We were delighted to collaborate with
Christian Holihan of Artisan Care in October to build a table and benches that
became the centerpiece in a community house which serves as a gathering place
and safe refuge for families, visitors, and community groups in a low income
area of East Nashville. Martha Berry and DiAnne Patrick provided their work
shop, Christian arranged for awesome lunches and snacks to be provided, Roger
Gramm of Just Plane Wood provided the finishing, and a good time was had by all
participants. I am grateful for members and new friends Gil Fuqua,
Lionel Barrow, DiAnne Patrick, Brad Rodriquez, Graham Campbell, Brad McPherson
and Peggy Joseph. Their input and help was invaluable.
In November, David Sapp showed us the
magic of CNC technology, while Bill Maddox shared the allure of vintage hand
tools. Whether you were interested in chair design, new tools, age old
techniques or promoting your business, we were able to provide an opportunity
for you to learn. Having been an educator for 23 years, I think that is what I
appreciate most about the Guild. There are always people eager to share their
knowledge and insight, yet eager to learn from others.
As this year begins, I hope you will be able
to join us often and benefit greatly from being a part of this special
organization. Believe it or not, we are already planning events for 2016.
Please contact us on the website, email us, follow us on Facebook or give us a call and let us know
what you would like to see in the coming year. The board is eager to make this
guild the best it can be for you. Help us by letting us know what you would
like to see and learn. Your involvement is what makes the Cumberland
Furniture Guild work.
Rita Kaplan
