Have you ever thought about giving a demonstration at one of the clubs evenings?By Frank Clarke RPTNO ! WHY NOT ?From time to time at our monthly meeting I make an appeal for members to give a short talk or demonstration. This is not such a difficult prospect as it seems, as these need only be about forty-five minutes, so we can usually fit in two such slots at each meeting. It can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for you passing on some idea or way of working that you may have developed. To start with, think of a good idea or subject that is not too difficult to do in the allotted time. Practice what you are going to show and familiarise yourself with any procedures that might be involved in the project. Some professionals use wet wood, as this is much easier to turn and they can really make the shavings fly, not to mention an awful lot less dust. If you are going to demonstrate a stool or a clock you will need well seasoned or kiln dried wood and make sure you have any fittings or parts that you may need to complete the project. Giving a demonstration helps you to focus on the task at hand, not to mention the skills involved. Think about the reasons behind this particular subject, the methodology required, what needs to be said and in which order. In the days before the demo keep a notebook handy and write down any thoughts and ideas that spring to mind. Practise making the piece and as you do, make a note of the tools and finishes that you use. For instance drilling a hole will you need an electric drill or will a Jacob's chuck do equally as well? If you proceed in this logical manner you will establish a list of all the things needed to give an entertaining and informative demonstration. If your demo requires any drawings or diagrams, either do them prior to the evening or again make sure you bring what is needed. The Blue Peter approach is a good thing, have a completed version of the item with you, or even more if the project goes through many stages. This is also a good idea if there is a lot of sanding required, as it will help keep the dust down and will not choke your audience. If, as mentioned earlier, you are making a stool, make all but one of the legs at home prior to the demo. In other words good planning is essential. Everybody has heard of Murphy's Law, -what can go wrong will go wrong. All woodturners know and accept this, the old adage of "the man who never made a mistake never made anything" is very true where woodturning is concerned. Finally the day before your command performance, sharpen your tools, check that you have packed everything that you will or might need. Read through your notes a few times to get things clear in your own mind, remember what you say is almost as important as what you do. Keep up a dialogue with the audience. If you stop talking they will start talking amongst themselves. Encourage constructive participation and re-state good ideas that come from the floor to make sure that all present have heard clearly. Ask for questions, if you don't know the answer, seek one from the members present, but do not let it become a free for all. Most people are like you they will share their expertise and advice willingly. However if you use other people's ideas or quote them, be sure to give credit where credit is due. So why not have a go? You may even be surprised, if you do then good luck. Enjoy yourself, but above all preach and practice safety. |
