Proudly Canadian: SAWS can celebrate its home-grown success
Maple leaves are a frequent feature in Paul Dean’s marquetry work. Dean has old school master class woodworking skills. Author of several books, maker of many commissions, a teacher of others who shares his skills willingly.
Hall table maple leaves marquetry by Paul Dean
Dean and his growing band of marquetry compatriots may soon generate some fresh designs. Maple Leafs, the Canadian flag version of Mother Nature’s magnificent original shape, suddenly have more significance. The world geopolitical environment has Canadian patriotism surging across the country, including among Southern Alberta Woodworker Society (SAWS) members.
No one knows what the future holds or how long this energy focus will last. No one will claim SAWS has saved the country. But as we plan for our 2025 Fine Works in Wood Exhibition and our 43nd year in existence as a club, this simple example of a crossover of craft, club and country is a reminder. Through those decades, the people and the projects that make up our club history, strengthened the fabric of our woodworking and general communities and indirectly, our country.
And while SAWS does not in any way dictate what members buy, our vibrant, active maker community is a solid business partner to the woodworking supply community that serves it. A message the organization is particularly proud to emphasize at this time of turmoil. Our 2025 Exhibition of the finest woodworking is a woodworking leadership example our business community can celebrate and rally around as well.
Maple leaves marquetry by Paul Dean
Quiet club success
As an organization, SAWS has been quietly successful, undeniably resilient over these decades. Look around and that is not a small feat.
We have maintained a comfortable, supportive personal space for many from young to old. A place for sharing and building skills from master level to entry. A place of camaraderie, friendship strengthening mental health and personal wellbeing, connections often lasting over decades. And hosting an inspirational Exhibition recognized nationally for its skill level.
So, let’s take a moment to remind ourselves and our supporters of why SAWS the organization and the Fine Works in Wood Exhibition are good examples of Canadian success. And why we are especially thankful for the support of our woodworking industry partners and Exhibition sponsors as they navigate these tricky times selling across borders.
Story in numbers, facts
A few numbers and facts about the Exhibition and its impact.
40 plus. The number of years ago that the SAWS Exhibition got started.
49. Number of entries accepted the past two shows, including 21 makers submitting 46 works in 2019 and 28 makers submitting 67 works in 2023. Multiply those entries by number of admirers for each piece to calculate true impact.
10 and 22. Number of first-time Exhibition entries in 2023 and the number of entries they submitted. A sign of a new generation of craftspeople SAWS has helped encourage.
150,000 to 200,000. Number of people that see the Exhibition over 10 days based on typical venue traffic stats. A simple, clear example of the potential marketing impact for exhibitors and sponsors.
17. Number of sponsorships over the last two Exhibitions. A reminder of the importance of local financial support and the value of home-grown talent.
Hundreds. Number of people attending the Exhibition who signed up for more. Note, we do not sell this list, only send information upcoming Exhibition information.
Hundreds. Number of “Join SAWS” business cards handed out at our last Exhibition. A clear example of how the SAWS Exhibition can encourage growth of the craft.
And a few details to celebrate what SAWS has as an organization and reasons for our resiliency.
4 plus. Decades the club has been around. A fact stated and restated, but an anchor one in terms of value to the Canadian woodworking community and for framing future success.
13. Number of members who joined this year. Not all stay members but there is good evidence the influence is strong.
10. Number of members outside the Calgary area that once defined SAWS who are now members. A useful fact for potential future growth.
8. The approximate number of meetings during which COVID restricted gathering. A time that killed many organizations, the SAWS board scrambled and attracted top notch meeting speakers from leading woodworker makers online and harvested useful information from members to keep the club meetings going.
5. Number of SAWS current and past members who do projects for the Ability Workshop, a Calgary-based organization that produces life changing products for handicapped people across the province. Just one example of public service by members.
3. Number of current and past members of the International Wood Collectors Society that links SAWS with knowledge of wood from around the world.
Lots. The broad capabilities of members that make for interesting connections, from house building and renovation to musical instruments, boat building to high end furniture.
Many. The different skills of SAWS members who deliver value through their knowledge, from eye safety, to chemical knowledge to hide glue efficacy.
Diverse. Interests from guide dog training to hiking and bird watching, to unique woodworking travel experiences, member interests flavor conversation and friendships.
Too many to count. The volunteers that are needed and have stepped up to help.
SAWS is a proud Canadian community, crafting excellence for over 40 years.
