About
Our organization was started in the spring of 1984. The father of a student at Western Michigan University approached his instructor, Gil Hutchings, stating that he wanted to improve his woodworking skills and was hoping Gil could give instructions once a month. There were a few students, Ray Creager and another that had an interest also. These men invited friends, who also invited friends, some undergraduate students and some alum. It grew to about 20 members who met at the woodworking lab in Kohrman Hall at WMU. Officers were elected, dues were collected, and some instructional VCR tapes purchased to be lent out to members. There were about 60 members as of the 2015-2016 season.
We usually meet once a month on the second Tuesday at 7:00 pm. Our current meeting space is the Kalamazoo Makers’ Space.
Meetings are not held in the months of July and August.
What We Do
Our usual meeting space is the Kzoo Makers Space in downtown Kalamazoo, but we occasionally meet at other shops. Meeting topics vary widely, often involving demonstrations from guild members or professionals in the community. Members are also encouraged to bring and discuss projects, or ask for input/help on works-in-progress.
General Meetings
Meetings typically include time for discussing projects, showing off our favorite pieces, and troubleshooting problems that members might be having.
Demonstrations
Many meetings involve woodworking demonstrations. From live process demonstrations for making a project, to tool sharpening classes.
Shop Tours
The Wood Guild was created as a community to share knowledge and improve woodworking skills. We encourage members to visit each other’s shops, and sometimes host meetings at different wood shops in Southwest Michigan.
Join the Guild
Not sure if the wood guild is for you? Stop by a meeting to check it out!
Woodworkers Guild of Southwest Michigan 