In the last issue of the Restorers Update, I laid out the first of eight "suggested" guidelines for the newly formed AOR/CCA Wood Restorers Guild. These guidelines are for those who wish to distinguish themselves from the "furniture Fixer" and move to a higher level of wood restoration. The eight that I have come up with I think are of importance. Do not get these confused with the AOR/CCA's Guidelines of Integrity, which are similar; these are directly related to the wood restorer.

The first one is a recap of what was in the last publication.

1. The restorer shall attempt to make every aspect of a treatment removable to some greater degree, without harm to the original object.

Please pull out the last issue to reread the scenarios that point out this position. And now on to listing the next three guidelines.

2. The Restorer shall strive for the highest possible workmanship in all aspects of the restoration process. If the Restorer lacks the skills for a particular project, he/she shall refer the work to a qualified restorer for all or part of the project or research treatment from other qualified colleagues.

We all get into projects that are over our heads. If the project is way out of your league refer it to someone who knows. Often times we take on projects that we think we can do but have never worked on before. This is where this group can help each other immensely. Get on the phone, e-mail, whatever and contact other members for advice. After all these guidelines represent the same goals that we all have and by following them we can help each other. Right now we as a group do not have a common goal, so if the question is asked "What is the best wood glue?" without any parameters all of the answers are correct.

3. All restorers shall freely and fully share their knowledge with other restorers, especially if asked.

In the long run this will make this group more knowledgeable, credible, and stronger if we work as a unit. I don't know about you but there is plenty of work to go around and I personally can't cover the entire country let alone my state; share the information. I was just reading in another trade organization publication about fees charged for certain work. It seems that some people charge what they feel they can get away with; sometimes exorbitant fees for little work. The moving industry is aware of this and often questions the cost of repairs, or simply stops using a repair firm because they are expensive. Private clients often wonder why the cost is so high. Well if you make prices up off the seat of your pants it becomes pretty hard to justify the cost when it comes to a face to face confrontation. The next guideline I believe will give this group a lot of creditability and accountability.

4. All fees shall be on a per hour basis, plus materials and not based on the value of the object.

Now if you have one rate for high end furniture because your highest skilled and paid employee has to work on it, and another rate for the other stuff, this is OK, as long as the restoration cost is base on hours and not the value of the object. With this principle, moving companies, insurance companies, and the private client can be assured that they are being treated fairly when using someone from the "AOR/CCA Wood Restorers Guild"

The next newsletter will have information on the last four guidelines. In the meantime, please review what we have up to this point.

As a member of the AOR/CCA, you are automatically enrolled in the AOR/CCA Wood Restorers Guild. I ask you to take an active part as we build this part of the organization. I am hoping that each member will respond to the following questions.

Please mail, email or pick up a phone and give me a call. I am looking forward to your input!

1. Are the guidelines understandable? If not, what part do you need more information on to make it clearer?

2. Do you agree or disagree with the guidelines? If disagree, please explain.

3. What suggestions do you have to reinforce any of the points?

Think about them! They need to reflect the views of the group. Lets hear from each one, even if its, "I am in agreement, keep going!"