They don't make them like they used to, or so the saying goes. That is especially true in the world of woodworking, which is something of a dying art form in the United States. The art of furniture making has dramatically changed since the invention of modern woodworking tools and the use of glue and metal fasteners, and in some cases, traditional skills and practices have been lost.

For woodworker Yeung Chan, reviving traditional design and techniques has been a lifelong passion, but he has embraced modern technology as well. He has learned how to recreate traditional Chinese furniture joints, which do not use nails or glue, but uses power tools to create the joints.

His work is so skillful that a furniture piece can be disassembled and reassembled repeatedly without the piece suffering damage or losing stability.

Chan will discuss his work at 7 p.m. Friday at the Corvallis-Benton County Library, as the keynote event for a three-day show by the Mid-Willamette Woodworkers Guild. Vice President Joanne Storch, a professional woodworker, said Chan's prominence in the field and his special skills make him an especially exciting presenter.

"For me, it's because he has a new, fresh approach to joinery," Storch said.

Chan's woodworking began early, when he started learning how to make toys and model planes as a child in his native China. After coming to the United States, he designed furniture for large companies before devoting himself to custom furniture making.

He teaches at a variety of woodworking schools, including the College of the Redwoods and Carleton College. His most well-known publication is "Classic Joints with Power Tools."

Storch said it is inspiring to meet another woodworker who has been able to support himself through his custom work. His dedication to traditional Chinese design is also important, she said.

"It's nice to get some influence from other cultures," Storch said. "It helps you to be more creative."

This is the first time the guild has featured a public speaker. Storch said guild members hoped Chan's presentation would draw bigger crowds to their annual furniture show, which takes place in the library's main meeting room, where Chan's talk also will be held.

The guild has around 30 members, including both amateur and professional woodworkers.

For more information on Chan's work, go to www.yeungchan.com. To find out more about the guild, go to www.midwillamettewoodworkers.com.

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Woodworker Yeung Chan will discuss his work at 7 p.m. Friday at the Corvallis-Benton County Library, as the keynote event for a three-day show by the Mid-Willamette Woodworkers Guild.