The Southwest Woodworkers Guild celebrated its 20-year anniversary in January, and is looking for new members and guests, according to a news release from its president, Steve Wilderson.
“Don’t let the name fool you,” said Wilderson. “The word ‘guild’ may give the impression that we are a group of elitists. Southwest Woodworkers Guild is just a group of people that take pleasure in all aspects of woodcraft.”
The guild currently has 22 members, and tries to meet the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at guild members’ shops.
“This allows us to meet in different locations around the area and see how each person chooses to set up their work/shop area,” Wilderson said.
Members and guests share tips and techniques and have a range of specialties including wood turning, carving and furniture making. The guild’s service projects include a display case at the Cortez Public Library, a toy giveaway at Christmas and tool donations to the shop at the Dolores schools.
“We share with each other what we have made, what we are currently working on, or what we dream of building in the future,” Wilderson said.
The guild also meets at area businesses, plans a picnic in August and hosts a Christmas party. Tours have included the Durango & Silverton Railroad’s shop.
Meetings are open to everyone. For more information, call Bob Ower at 970-565-4178.