Scroll Saws, Food, and Fellowship

Mike Lawson of Wausau, Wis., created bookends using John A. Nelson’s giraffe puzzle design.

I was honored to once again take part in the Midwest Scroll Saw Trade Show (www.midwesttradeshow.com), hosted by Ocooch Hardwoods and The Art Factory.
       Vendors were welcomed to their booths with a delicious cheese and cracker tray. The Friday-night banquet was held at a new location this year and the food was outstanding. I even made it to the Foremost cheese factory to pick up some aged Wisconsin cheddar to bring home to my family. Can you tell I love to eat?
    But enough about food, let’s move on to one of my other passions-scroll saw projects! I always enjoy perusing the brag tables to see what folks are up to in their shops. Mike Lawson created a unique version of the giraffe puzzle featured in Scroll Saw Woodworking & Craft's fall issue (issue #36). He added a circle backing and a base for stability, and turned the giraffes into bookends. What a clever idea! I’m always amazed by the creativity of our readers. 
    The entries in the contest were fantastic. There was definitely some fierce competition this year. With everything from clocks and crosses to portraits and boxes, there was enough craftsmanship on display to make me feel a bit guilty about my poor neglected saw back home. I vow to get busy and at least make a few Christmas ornaments this season. Pat Lupori cleaned up, claiming both Best of Show and Scroller's Choice for her beautiful rendition of “Flight of Fancy” by Robin Wirtz (www.woodwirtz.com).
    In my opinion, the best part of scroll saw shows is getting the chance to speak with other scrollers. Whether they are seasoned woodworkers or just starting out, I love to hear about their latest projects and chat about the magazine. The midwest show also provides an excellent opportunity to meet up with a few SSW&C contributors and catch up over grilled bratwurst and roasted corn on the cob. I’m already looking forward to next year’s show!

Shannon Flowers
Shannon@FoxChapelPublishing.com