ERWA holds fair to impart woodworking knowledge

Members of the public were treated to a show by ERWA members who were set up at different tables, demonstrating ways of cutting wood and the tools needed for each type of wood.

September 8, 2022

Lebohang Pita 2 minutes read

Members of the East Rand Woodworking Association are (back) Matthew Potgieter, Gerald Brit, Johan Steyl and Theo Reyneke. Front: Allan de Vries and Les Sales.

Les Sales of the East Rand Woodworking Association (ERWA) has pleaded with anyone interested in working with wood to join them for their monthly meetings.

Sales made this plea at the East Rand Woodworking Fair at Holy Trinity Church in Northmead on September 3.

He expressed concern that despite the country’s unemployment crisis and their best efforts to attract members, they are still not getting new members.

Matthew Potgieter of the East Rand Woodworkers Association.

“We have these events because we are not getting the response we are hoping for. We are trying to increase our membership. We want young people to get involved. They talk about unemployment. We can help many youngsters get started.

“There are a lot of young people who are dedicated that we can help. We want them to come to our meetings to see what we are about. Everyone is welcome,” he said.

He said the purpose of the fair was to share their knowledge about woodwork with the public.

Ari Mansur from Edenvale has extensive knowledge in the woodworking field. He said he’s always ready to help those interested in working with wood.

“We have teachers who have extensive knowledge in this field. We also have what we call white elephant ‘stores’ where we sell second-hand tools to help those interested get started.”

Sales advised those interested in woodwork to start small and seek help from a professional.

Also Read: Variety of items on show at Woodworkers’ Fair

“Show them what you can do. The teachers are always ready to help and we also invite professionals to our meetings to speak on different topics related to woodwork. We will share our knowledge and you can do your thing afterwards,” he said.

Gerard Steyl of the East Rand Woodworkers Association demonstrates how to properly cut wood.

Members of the public were treated to a show by ERWA members who were set up at different tables, demonstrating ways of cutting wood and the tools needed for each type of wood.

Companies like Vermont, Tork Craft and SawStop were present to showcase items ranging from woodworking and carpentry tools, saws and sliding tables needed to get your projects started.

The club was started in 2003 and it boasts some members with over 50 years of woodworking experience.

Bokke fever: Les Sales of the East Rand Woodworking Association show his support for the Springboks who were playing against Australia.

Ari Mansur from Edenvale told the paper they are always ready to share their knowledge and help others improve their skills.

“We teach and also learn from others. Anyone interested in woodwork should come and find out exactly what we do. They will get everything they need. As our motto says, we enjoy, learn and share,” Mansur said.

The ERWA’s meetings are held every third Wednesday of every month at 18:00 at Holy Trinity Church.

Also Read: Visit a woodworkers’ paradise