First off, please forgive if this message is HTML encoded--I'm crippled by AOL... I don't know if the mount designs for this mirror grinding class have been decided on already, but I previously decided that if this class was held again, I'd offer to any who might be interested use of my patterns, jigs and experience to assist in the construction of telescope mounts similar to those I make: http://blackknighttelescopes.com/BK_Black_Walnut_frames.htm I will say up front that making a wooden mount like this is a lot of work (easily dozens of hours, depending on how nice you want it), but I think it would be very rewarding to those willing to brave it. I can provide the following: - patterns to quickly and accurately route all the mount parts - training working with hardwood veneers (unless you want a maple or baltic birch mount, which is available pre-veneered) - instruction and assistance in finishing various types of wood - instruction on how to quickly make a very nice tube - helpful, friendly advice and access to some tools to help you with your own design - etc. I work from a smaller shop, so if invited, I would probably need to come to the hangar or to another location with more space for tools and room to work. It would also be good if I didn't need to bring every useful power tool, though I can certainly bring some of the more portable tools. It would be helpful if the cost of required bits, blades, etc. could be covered by those participating. I don't mean to crowd in on what might already be a well laid plan, so feel free to tell me if there is no interest. My personal schedule is pretty tight this winter, but if there is any interest at all in what I have to share, I'd love to squeeze in where I could. Finally, my design is best suited for 8" f/5 through f/7, 10" f/5 and f/6, and perhaps a 12.5" f/4.5 or f/5. You can probably go a bit longer for each aperture listed, but you lose the ability to shift the tube in the cradle to balance eyepieces, etc. and might need to make the mount a bit heavier to keep damping times low. Kind regards, Paul Stock