Wood. A beautiful natural resource in an almost infinite variety of colors and textures. For over 50 years I have been a hobbyist woodworker making everything from utilitarian shelves in a basement to a wonderful custom desk that I use every day. I have always enjoyed making something from nothing, and making it look nice as well. By trade I'm an engineer in the high tech world (now retired) and a theatrical technical director (very active right now).

But I was running out of things to make with wood. I had most major power tools except a lathe. What could I make with a lathe? I had a wood pen that I liked very much, but I decided if I got a lathe to make pens I'd make 2 or 3 for myself and family and never do anything again.

Then I realized I could open a small internet-based "store" and sell my pens! I could make many of them, using different styles and woods, and let my creative side reign. And so I did.

Will I ever get rich doing this? Not when measured in money, but the satisfaction of turning out another new pen in another new wood is very rewarding. I'm addicted to this. I see new pen styles from my suppliers and I want to make one or two just to see how they come out. I have forced myself to limit my pens to about 60 styles, but that limit keeps getting moved! Yes, I'd like to make a few bucks on this (have never recovered my costs yet!) but the REAL pleasure is when a new owner oohs and aahs over the look and feel of a fine writing instrument that I created. Their smile is my paycheck.

I do make pens with acrylics, but I prefer wood. I like the texture of the wood, which is why I use wax/shellac polishes instead of cyanoacrylate (plastic) finishes. The CA finish gives durability and gloss, but the pen then feels like plastic, not wood. I want my pen to warm in the hand as only natural wood can do. I want that textural feel of wood, not the feel of plastic.

My clients are discerning individuals that appreciate art and function, and revel in the same sensual feel of wood that I experience. I offer more pens than I have on Etsy, so please visit my website, www.WoodPensAndThings.com, to see my complete store.

If you like fine things, enjoy holding a nice pen, or just having a beautiful desk ornament (yes, people collect pens just for the visual appeal) I am here to help you.

A fine pen is jewelry for your words.......

Thank you for visiting my store!

Steve Margison, October 2021