Paul, as we are all learning, is a masterful teacher and demonstrator. His latest demo was on how to do a version of the standard twist, called the pineapple twist. This more sophisticated twist is most often used on tool handles, such as fireplace pokers, shovels, etc. However, Paul also brought a unique example of using this twist on the grip of a sheath knife. Paul, as he usually does, talked about all of the steps he was taking as he was working on the pineapple twist so that we clearly understood the steps and the finer points of ending up with a finished and attractive piece. Paul also had pass outs which clearly, through photos and a narrative, walked you through all of the steps. While heating his demo piece, Paul introduced yet another, even more complicated twist, which he has yet to actually make, called the alligator twist in which the end product has the interesting pattern of alligator skin. Paul will demonstrate that technique at a future meeting.

The overall meeting was another success with over 30 members attending along with several new folks, a number of whom got to try their hand at moving metal at the forge. Some promising smiths there! Lastly, we were pleased to have Andy VanSchoick and his 150lb. lap dog drop by. Andy was one of our early founding members and jack-of-all-trades and who now owns Evolution Ironworks in Albany.

DO NOT FORGET! OUR AUGUST MEETING IS OFF-SITE AND IN SCHENECTADY. SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS.