Are we having fun yet?
I dont do a lot of polls in this blog the format isnt quite right for it but Im doing one today. The question is straightforward: How is…
I dont do a lot of polls in this blog the format isnt quite right for it but Im doing one today. The question is straightforward: How is the economy doing for your shop; specifically, are things getting better?
Yeah, the economys been bad. Professional woodworkers (and professional woodworking writers) have had a rough time of it for a few years, and still are. But are things beginning to turn around?
Speaking for myself, things are still tough. But I think and Im knocking on wood here with my fingers crossed (yes, its somewhat painful but hopefully more effective) things may be changing. At least, they may have hit the bottom. On the down side, the bottom is a lousy place to be. On the plus side, things cant get worse; they can only stay the same or get better.
So which is it?
Take a good, hard look at how things are going for you, and let me know whats what. Plain and simple, are things getting better for you professionally? If not actually on a track that youd describe as getting better, have things at least begun to level off? Are you seeing signs that might mean a possible turnaround in your professional future maybe youre not seeing extra cash in your wallet today, but youre beginning to smell the signs that just might indicate that things are about to change?
These signs may not even be positive in a literal sense. Perhaps some of your potential customers are taking more time before saying no to a proposal or bid, instead of just turning you down immediately. Like I said, the signs may not be positive, but at they may be signs nonetheless that customers are considering buying again.
So, what say you?
Do you have a feeling that things are about to get better for woodworking, or are at least getting ready to turn the corner for the better?
Till next time,
A.J.

A.J. Hamler is the former editor of Woodshop News and Woodcraft Magazine. He's currently a freelance woodworking writer/editor, which is another way of stating self-employed. When he's not writing or in the shop, he enjoys science fiction, gourmet cooking and Civil War reenacting, but not at the same time.