I did not know much about a Doric column, or the Doric orders of classical architecture. I knew even less how they apply to the design work I do, as I was not trained as a woodworker (I learned it the hard way). But I learned a lot of the basics from George Walker during the Woodworking in America (WIA) conference in 2010. I am certain he can talk about the columns, and the intricacies of the Doric order, for days on end:
George taught several sessions on Design in at least two conferences. Although he won’t be an instructor at the 2011 conference in Cincinnati, he will be working the SAPFM booth. You will have a chance to pick his brain, in person, and in a totally informal way.
That is what I find fascinating about the WIA conferences. As woodworkers, we have a chance to meet and talk to people who have expertise beyond anything we have today, to help us grow in whatever we tackle in our craft.
This year, for example, the focus of the conference is joinery:
Popular Woodworking Magazine has gathered the top craftsmen working today to help you perfect your skills, particularly when it comes to joinery. You’ll get up-close-and-personal with these legends of woodworking during hands-on sessions that answer all your joinery questions.Woodworking in AmericaSpeakers page
Your plans?
- Are YOU interested in Joinery as a main topic?
- Do you struggle with some types of joinery more than others?
- What is your favorite joinery to make boxes?
— Al Navas

I want to say my favorite joint when making boxes is twisted dovetails, for drawers half-blind dovetails, with sturdy tables the rising dovetail, to boards carcass I like finger joints. Well you know joinery is my favorite topic