Finding My Woodworking Groove at the Kerrville Show
Ah, the Kerrville Woodworking Show. It’s that time of year again, you know? When the sweet smell of freshly cut cedar mingles with the sound of excited chatter. Picture me, sitting here with a steaming cup of black coffee—my truest companion in the early mornings—and thinking about how I almost didn’t even go to the show this year. It’s funny how fear can sometimes hold you back, even when you’re itching to dive into the wood shavings and sawdust.
Second-Guessing Myself
So, I was debating whether to take a chance on the show. I mean, there’s always that little voice in my head that bubbles up every time I think about attending these things. It goes something like, “What if you embarrass yourself, Charlie? What if everyone else is way better than you?” But then, when I started daydreaming about all those beautiful walnut slabs and those perfect dovetail joints displayed on the tables, I figured, “Heck, life’s too short to let fear hold you back!” So I threw on my favorite flannel shirt—always a good luck charm for me—and headed to the convention center.
The Chaos and the Community
Walking through the doors, I could feel the energy buzzing. You’ve got woodworkers of all kinds—some old-timers with grizzled beards and hands like leather, and fresh-faced kids with wide eyes, maybe even a few folks like me who are somewhere in between, just trying to find their niche. You can hear the whir of saws and the clinking of tools as they were demoed. The scent of sawdust engulfed me, and I swear it was like coming home.
I wandered around, checking out everything from the newest power tools to incredible handmade furniture. There was this one booth with stunning cherry wood pieces that just about stopped me in my tracks. Seriously, I didn’t know cherry could look so rich and vibrant! In my mind, I was already planning my next project. But then, out of curiosity, I wanted to see how they did those sharp edges. I asked the guy at the booth what tools he used. Turns out he owned an ancient router, probably older than I am. He chuckled and said, “Sometimes old tools have more character than we give ‘em credit for.”
Yeah, I could resonate with that.
The Fumble of Woodworking
Then came the demo area. Oh boy, this was both thrilling and terrifying. I watched as some pro demonstrated a cutting technique, and then they called for some volunteers. Well, I thought, why not? I raised my hand, heart racing a mile a minute, and suddenly, I was in front of a small crowd with a router in hand.
Let me tell you, I almost fumbled it hard! You’d think I hadn’t picked up a tool in my life. My hands were shaky—probably from all the coffee I’d drank that morning. Instead of making a smooth line, I ended up splintering the wood. I could hear a few chuckles from the audience, and my face got flushed red. I laughed it off, but inside I was thinking, “Why can’t I just get this right for once?” I almost bailed right then and there.
But here’s the thing. The pro manning the booth patted me on the shoulder and said, “Don’t sweat it. Every time you mess up, you’re just learning something new.” That little piece of wisdom hit me like a ton of bricks. It’s so easy to forget that mistakes are part of the journey.
Sculpting What Matters
After that embarrassing little episode, I decided to wander a bit more. I bumped into a guy named Ed, whose passion for woodworking practically jumped out of him. He was working on a stunning oak table, and it was just mesmerizing. He invited me over to see how he’s got his grain lined up perfectly and showed me the different types of finishes he likes.
Going through that little impromptu masterclass, I got to feel the different textures and scents. The oil finish he used smelled heavenly, like a warm hug after a cold day. Ed shared some of his war stories, too—like the time he accidentally mixed up his stains and ended up with this bizarre pink finish. “You gotta roll with the punches, Charlie,” he said, grinning wildly. “Otherwise, you’ll drive yourself nuts!”
Lessons in Every Shavings
By the end of the day, I left that show filled with warmth. Not just from the coffee but from the sense of community that enveloped me. I learned a lot—sure, even if it was mostly about not taking myself too seriously. I was reminded that every craftsman has their mishaps. Every perfect piece of furniture has a story tucked away in its grains.
So, if you’re holding back, whether it’s to attend your first woodworking show or start a small project, just remember that everyone has their rough beginnings. I wish someone had told me this sooner: It’s okay to fumble, and it’s okay to mess up. That’s how you get better, how you learn what you actually love to do. Just dive in and find your rhythm, even if it takes a few tries to get there.
Bottom line? If you’re thinking about hitting the Kerrville Woodworking Show next year—or heck, any show—just go for it. You’re gonna feel that buzz, that excitement buzzing through your veins. And who knows? You might just meet a few folks who become friends for life and inspire you along the way. Cheers!
