Pins & Tales is the quarterly digital newsletter of SAPFM, published in Adobe PDF format. Issues are sent to current members at the end of March, June, September and December with the latest listings of classes, events, news and articles on research, construction and finishing of historical forms of furniture. Members also have access to all previous issues of the quarterly. This is just one of the many benefits of SAPFM membership.
The SAPFM Editorial Team is Pleased to Present the Spring 2026 Issue of Pins & Tales
In this issue we list the latest classes, chapter meetings and events of interest to all in the furniture making community. If you are a member and are logged into this website, you'll see a link to our newsletter archive at the bottom of the screen where you can access and download the current and all previous issues of Pins & Tales. If you are not yet a member of SAPFM scroll down to download a complimentary copy of the current issue. If you want to be part of an active, growing group of people you can join us at this link. <https://sapfm.org/membership2/join-with-sapfm-today>
In this issue we introduce you to new members of the SAPFM board (and show you some of their work) and we announce the winners of the 2025 Phil Lowe Makers Challenge. In addition to the three category winners you can view all of the entrants at this link <https://sapfm.org/makers-challenge-2025>. We congratulate everyone who entered and shared their work. Make sure to include your next project in the 2026 edition of this contest. Our regional chapters are an important part of our organization and we report on recent meetings. We also list upcoming chapter meetings and upcoming gatherings coming in May; the Fine Woodworking New England show in Connecticut and Hand Tool Haven in Pennsylvania.
Two of our Cartouche recipients, Alf Sharp and Ronnie Young were featured recently on "The Volunteer Woodworker" a PBS show hosted by Charles Brock. If it isn't available in your area we tell you how to access this online. Tennessee has a rich history of furniture making and Alf Sharp writes about how popular styles were adapted in this region. We also have a story about how you can access one of the most comprehensive collections of period furniture without leaving home.
Pins & Tales is one of the many benefits of SAPFM membership along with our annual journal, American Period Furniture, website, and regional chapter meetings. Please spread the word about our organization to your friends and neighbors, either in person or through social media. There are many folks out there who would enjoy our organization but aren't aware of us yet. We need your help to increase awareness about SAPFM, the things we do and the fellowship among our members. If you are not a member yet, download this issue of Pins & Tales and have a look at who we are and what we are about.
Our publications, events and chapter meetings all depend on members to share their efforts in making furniture and growing our organization. Make time to participate, volunteer and explore the numerous ways to give back. Every volunteer is important. Your local chapter always needs help planning, organizing and conducting meetings. If there isn't an active chapter in your area, consider starting one or stepping up to revitalize one. If you want to get involved on any level there are numerous opportunities. What you receive from your SAPFM membership is directly related to what you contribute.
If you have an idea for an article for either of our publications get in touch with me to find out how easy it can be and how much it helps everyone in the organization when you share what you are working on. We're all in this together.
-- Bob Lang, editor