I’m happy to announce that registration is open for the 17th annual Working Wood in the 18th Century conference, “Desks: The Write Stuff,” presented by Colonial Williamsburg and Fine Woodworking. There are two sessions: Jan. 18–21, 2015, and Jan. 22–25. With live presentations by staff of Williamsburg’s Anthony Hay Cabinet Shop, attendees will get an inside, in-person look at the design, construction, and evolution of 18th-century desk forms, with examples drawn primarily from the Colonial Williamsburg collection. In addition, guest presenter Robert Millard, who specializes in reproducing Federal-era furniture, will demonstrate the details and decoration in a Lady’s Tambour Writing Desk attributed to John and Thomas Seymour (see photo, above).

Presenters at the conference are always top-notch-they’re informative and entertaining-and the venue is hard to beat. While you’re there, you can explore a treasure trove of furniture in the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, walk the Colonial Williamsburg grounds and chat with 18th-century characters in costume (be proper!), and visit boutique shops and cafés within walking distance. There’s also a fabulous banquet event and cocktail hour. And this year there will be something new-a tool swap. Fine Woodworking editors will be available to chat between sessions. For more information and registration, visit the Colonial Williamsburg website.