As you have no doubt noticed, your favorite woodworking magazine looks a bit different. But rest assured, wrapped in this new skin beats the same vigorous heart. These new colors and graphics are designed to draw you in; to make our woodworking content that much more engaging. That’s all thanks to our new Art Director, Michael Church. Michael’s stellar layouts are a welcome refresh to these pages. As of this writing, he’s been with us for only three weeks, but with his experience and eye for detail, it seems like he’s been on the job for years. He understands what it takes to clearly and accurately present our top-notch projects and techniques.
Michael got interested in woodworking while working as a display technician at the National Gallery of Art in Washington D. C. He had complete access to their fully-stocked underground woodshop and was sure to take advantage. Now, Michael leads Woodcraft Magazine’s art team, which includes our ace graphic design intern, Kelley Powell, and a host of the best illustrators and photographers in the business.
In addition to overseeing the art staff, Michael also works closely with our excellent editorial crew. Veteran woodworker and project designer extraordinaire, senior editor Ken Burton leads the team that also includes first-rate associate editors, Sarah Marriage and Derek Richmond. Sarah brings a unique eye for design and a mission to increase gender diversity in woodworking. See page 27 for her take on a safe, reliable, eco-friendly finish. Derek, a skillful woodworker and writer, designed and built our cool cover project—a glass-topped, Mid-Century-inspired coffee table (p. 31).
For this issue, our great in-house group teamed up with a few talented contributors to bring you even more outstanding content: Boston-based furniture maker Ellen Kaspern co-designed the contemporary dining chair on page 44. Former Fine Woodworking editor Asa Christiana shares his method for making picture frames (p. 38) while Willie Sandry, “The Thoughtful Woodworker,” mixes resin and dye for an illuminating effect (p. 22). And on page 64, Melenahe Martin, who repairs and restores musical instruments, reveals her process for preparing projects for finishing.
We are all dedicated to bringing you the best projects, techniques, products, and inspiration for today’s woodworker. Michael is no exception; his contributions have already made a positive impact. We’re looking forward to more exciting improvements in the future. Stay tuned!
