Pre-Fest Bowl Carving Class 2017. Bottom l-r: Tom, Joe, Yours Truly, Andrew, Bob, and Riley. Top l-r: Stoyan, Mike, Travis, Gene, Bill, Andy, and Henry.

Those three words are still resonating in my mind as I settle back into my workshop after returning from Greenwood Fest 2017.  During one of his addresses to the crowd, Peter Follansbee used those words to describe what he values most when reflecting on his years in woodworking.  It’s the people.  Words of wisdom.

The highlight among the pines and wood chips of the Fest is meeting and reconnecting with so many interesting and wonderful people.  The atmosphere of friendliness and comradery is like a tonic, soothing and warming.

I didn’t take many photos during the Fest itself, but there are many special moments locked in my memory, as clear and joyful as Barn’s laugh.

I was able to snap a few photos during the Pre-Fest bowl carving class, during which twelve great guys carved birch logs into bowls.  We celebrated on the final day by sharing Turkish Delight brought by class participant Henry from his home in Istanbul!

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As you might be able to tell in the slideshow above, every bowl was based on the same general design, yet each was also unique.  The individuality of the logs, carvers, design decisions, and tools resulted in twelve special bowls ready for drying and further refinements.  As a perfect example of unique tools, notice the photo of Stoyan’s adze, made from a broken gouge and a yew branch.  It was an inspiring example of resourcefulness — and it was sharp!

At the Fest and beyond, making wood chips has connected me with many wonderful people, and I’m grateful.