Founded in 1983, SAWS is a non-profit Society located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Its mandate is to promote fine woodworking to the public and to raise interest in SAWS by encouraging membership.
Want to learn more about SAWS? Find answers to frequently asked questions below. Please contact us if you don’t see your specific question.
What are the benefits of joining SAWS?
There are many. SAWS is “Where woodworkers learn”. We are an open, inclusive group with a long history. One message we hear regularly from members is they enjoy the camaraderie and mentorship, and the ability to learn directly from other members. No matter what your skill level there are opportunities to learn. We have a growing interest in a woodworking marketplace where tools, supplies, industry links and services are available. These benefits are explained in detail here.
Does SAWS have categories of membership?
There are several categories and those are explained at the membership link here here. We want to encourage people of all ages to join. And we have discounted rates for students and for people outside the Calgary region as well.
The SAWS Exhibition showcases such a high skill level. Do I need to be that good to join and benefit from membership?
We have all skill levels in our membership and we believe they all can benefit from being part of our group. We hope to create active woodworkers, those who are continually improving their capabilities no matter their abilities. The SAWS Exhibition is a pinnacle of achievement for our members. Members see this as something to celebrate and all share in that success.
When and where are meetings held?
You can learn the details of meeting dates, times and locations here. If you are not a member, a simple way to get a sense of the flavor of the group is to attend a meeting as a guest. You are welcome to do that at no charge and you do not need to register beforehand. Just show up. Then ask any member to introduce you to one of our greeters to learn more about SAWS.
What do I need to do to be listed under the Commissions section on the website?
The Commissions section is a service provided to members. SAWS has established quality standards of production to meet in order to be listed here. Note SAWS is not responsible in any way for business decisions between buyer and seller on this site. Contact SAWS directly for more information.
When is the next SAWS Exhibition?
SAWS Exhibitions are held every two years. The next one will be in September 2023.
I may be interested in entering something in the SAWS Exhibition. How do I do that?
We appreciate interest in the SAWS Exhibition. It has set an artistic and production standard over many years in our woodworking community. Details of the next Exhibition are here. There is a discount for SAWS members, so considering joining SAWS if you are not already a member. The Exhibition will be advertised well ahead of the event. Calls for entries will be announced several months prior to the event. There are production timelines to be met and since most work is developed over weeks and months, planning is recommended. All entries must pass the SAWS Standards Committee requirements.
How do I get a name tag?
Name tags will be printed and waiting for you at the first meeting after you join.
I may be interested in volunteering for a SAWS committee or the board. How do I do that?
Serving on committees and /or the board is a great way to help build a great organization and to meet and work with members. There are several committees that are populated annually and nine board positions that are filled at our Annual General Meeting in June. If you are interested in serving please email us directly here or approach any board member at any one of our meetings. And thank you for your interest.
I have an idea for a meeting topic for SAWS. What do I do?
We welcome all ideas and suggestion. They can be submitted online through the SAWS general contact email online or provided to any board member. They will be forwarded for consideration to the Program Committee which organizes our meetings.
What are the expectations of me when I join SAWS?
There are no specific expectations in a woodworking sense and we hope all members enjoy the experience. There are no personal expectations other than to treat people with respect.
Is there a list of members I can use to contact people with questions?
All members have access to a full members list on the private members area on the website.