Tool Event

I was able to help out at the Lie-Nielsen Tool Event in Edmonton this weekend, held at NAIT, the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology.



Jeremy Tomlinson directed the show, he and I both did sharpening demos for the students and other show attendants.




The guest demonstrator was Duncan Robertson of Quiet Woodworking. He is an excellent teacher, combining education and humour in an easy to understand manner. He is one of those rare individuals who's talent is in an inverse proportion to his ego, and I feel fortunate to have met him.



His tool chest is amazing.









There are six more drawers.

I only saw half of the woodworking shops at the school, but what I saw was an impressive mix of high quality vintage machinery next to brand new CNC technology. I am envious of the opportunity the students get here. However, the real gems are in the instructors, people with a real passion for education and craft. They were all friendly and hospitable. Two of the warmest are Brent Efird and Monika Mannke. I was able to spend time with both involved in interesting discussions regarding education and inspiration, getting excited about projects, and taking tours of the school. During slow periods we sampled tools from Duncan's chest, including Glen Drake's Wild West joinery saw.



I met many interesting people from many different backgrounds, from custom pool cue makers to Inside Passage alumni to retirees looking for a hobby. I taught a 9 year old and a 76 year old how to saw. It amazes me that such a diverse group shares such a deep bond.