So, Joe, after watching your seminar I just had to try the wood carving of scroll. Only did a small part of a scroll but must say your technique works really well. Now..if only I can add a few hours to the day.

Three things came to mind as I tried the technique. First, as I use my left thumb to help quide the tool, dulling the back half of the #11 exacto blade prevents cutting said thumb. Next, the tools need to be really sharp to get smooth cutting. Selection of wood helps here I am sure. And thirdly, I find anytime I work anywhere near a gun stock I have to trim my fingernails or there will be unwanted dents in the wood.

I hope many of you folks try this carving...it is fun and fairly easy, if you are patient. S

Sam Welch
2/5/2007 1:18:35 PM

Sam.....like you,I have been trying my hand at this stock carving,it is something that will only add to an engraver's diversity. It is something worth experimenting with. Joe is an excellent stock carver, but his German, not so good. The seminars were great. I also had the benefit of attending your seminar on photography...one of my weakest areas. And my computer skills aren't the sharpest. So thanks to you Joe and Andrew for the wonderful seminars.
M A Smith

Mark Smith
2/6/2007 12:08:58 PM

Mark, I hope the seminar will help or encourage a lot of engravers to get good photos of their work and get them in the public eye.

It was really nice to see you and other new faces at the Reno show and especially displaying such nice new work. Look forward to seeing you there again next year. S

Sam Welch
2/8/2007 7:43:50 AM

Sam,

The seminars were most informative, and educational. I'm in the process of researching a better digital camera and engineering a light tent. I see now the importance of taking proper photos of our work. Thank you again for the seminar.

I had a wonderful time meeting and speaking with you and the other engravers. My experience there was most rewarding and one I won't soon forget. Its an honor to be a part of the guild, and to support its traditions and to ensure its prosperity for years to come.

I look forward to the next show.

M A Smith

Mark Smith
2/10/2007 12:19:33 AM

I too look forward to the next show. After attending FEGA meetings for 26 years you would think there would be a slackening of interest but I am as jazzed from this years show as I have ever been and look forward to next year as much as ever. A good part of that is because of all the new people that attended and displayed this year. Maybe I am just getting over my shyness! (I heard a giggle, stop that now).

There's plenty of room for more so Ya'll Come, Ya Hear? S

Sam Welch
2/10/2007 7:53:56 AM

Sam, I think you are just lonely. I am slowly moving closer to you. A big thank you to you and the others who gave seminars. I have a bookfull of notes. I will forgive that it will cost me in the end. New camera, computer programs, knives, etc.. I echo Sam's thoughts on how refreshing and stimulating it is to see the work of others and especially nice to have some new blood. Aside from the opportunity to steal ideas I would go just to see the people. Where else can I find a crowd so bizarre, interesting, and warm. As Sam said "There's plenty of room so Ya'll Come, Ya Hear?".

Lee Griffiths
2/10/2007 10:34:15 AM