bitsandspurs

I am starting this post for feedback on the 1st annual bit and spur conference. The dates right now are November 19th, 20th, 21st held in Farmersville, Texas. I am starting this post to ge any suggestions on what people would like to see and learn while they attend and to just basically get feedback and suggestions for this event. I will post a new topic on who may be able to attend. I am open to any and all help on getting this going. Larry especially you since you know more about this. Thanks to everyone for all of your help. Feel free to call or email me at gbspurs@sbcglobal.net or call me at 469-767-1035.
George

George,
The dates sound good. Some of the topics could be

-Inlays

-Overlays

-Bits how and why they work

-Engraving styles and layout

-Making rein and heel chain

-Welding tips

-Jigs

-????????????????

What would all you makers like to see and who would you like to have demo these topics. If you would like to share your knowledge by doing a demo or lecture please let us know. We need your help and imput to make this work. Don't be bashful.

Larry
928-776-8777
fuegen@cableone.net

Lary can we count on you for a forge demo and lecture I know I would to see it.
George

George,

I'll be glad to do a forging demo or what ever you would like.

Larry

George and Larry,

The conference sounds like a great idea and the dates work good for me. And just let us know when you want some donations and I will send down some money.

Tyler

TENTITIVE SCHEDULE for the Conference - November 20 -22
Friday
9-10..... Making buckles ..... Mike Pardue
10-11... Making Conchos..... Mike Pardue
11-12... Making Rein Chains..... Rod Teuscher
12-1..... Lunch break
1-3 ...... The Anatomy of a Horses mouth..... Greg Darnell
3-5....... Handforged 1 piece spurs...... Larry Fuegen
5-6 ...... Building a Belt Grinder..... Rod Teuscher

Saturday
8-9........ Silver Inlay..... Russell Yates
9-10...... Silver Overlay..... Russell Yates
10-11... Layout for successful engraving..... Wilson Capron.
11-12... Brightcut Engraving ..... Wilson Capron
12-1..... Lunch break
1-2:30.. Bits & How they work..... Greg Darnell
2:30-4.. Handforging a Spade mouthpiece..... Larry Fuegen
4-5....... Spur bending and Other Jigs ..... Rod Teuscher
5-6....... Show what you brought.....
6.......... Bar-B-Que

Sunday.....
8-9... Making a Mona Lisa Mouthpiece..... to be announced
9-10... Making Your Business Successful..... Panel to be announced
10-11.. Critique of makers work ..... Panel
11-12.. Open Question and Answers

Please contact George Blackwood to pre-register. gbspurs@sbcglobal.net or 469-767-1035. SPACE IS LIMITED.

Larry,
That looks great. I can't wait. Thanks to you and George for getting this rolling.

Stewart

Sounds like a good time but boy you guys live a long ways from home for me! hmmmm what to do!

I think this a great idea and am really excited to find out more. Count me in.

Michael

one of the best ideas yet count me in.

George, could you list some places we could stay at during the conference?
Larry

Larry, I think Mckinney,TX will be the best bet for hotels closest to the spur shop. Here are a few I found. 1) Holiday Inn & Suites, 3220 Craig Drive, Mckinney, TX 75070,800-551-2409. 2) Best Western Mckinney Inn & Suites,480 Wilson Creek Blvd,McKinney, TX 75069, 972-548-3000. 3) Days Inn, 2104 N Central Expressway, McKinney, TX 75070, 972-548-8888. There is also one in Wylie, TX which is about 20 minutes from Farmersville, 4) Best Western Wylie Inn, 2300 SR 78 North, Wylie, TX 75098, 972-429-1771. I hope this will help everybody out a little.

George

Hi. Found this forum last week and am picking up a ton of information. Would this conference be too much for someone who is just getting started in making gear or is it primarily for established makers? I am interested in making spade bits, mainly for using. Thank you. Kevin

Kevin, the conference is open to anyone who is interested in making or learning about bits and spurs. Contact George and get your name on the list since room is limited and he needs get a head count.

Larry

I would like to see tips for finishing, polishing, and different finishes as well.
m