Thanks for the comments, guys. I've thought about putting wood samples out for display at shows, but it would just take up more precious room. I also thought about putting out a box of pen blanks with a sign to choose your own wood for a pen, with delivery at the show the next day or by mail. To be honest, I've done only one show - at a local high school, so cannot speak authoritatively about selling at shows. And, I'm a failure as a salesman, too, but I do enjoy bs-ing with people.
I tried to start a discussion elsewhere about how much to display at a booth, but it didn't ignite. Once I took my wife to a perfume shop in Paris that had over 10,000 different perfumes, and she didn't find a single one she wanted. I think if they had had, say, 20 perfumes, she would have found the right one. Similarly, if I put out 500 pens to sell, people might not be able to choose because there is always the thought that there is almost certainly one that is more suitable than the one they are considering.
Frank, I have to disagree with you about too many people here trying to extend their skills. While you didn't say that, I think that is the gist of what you were saying. You don't see many plain wood pens in Pen World Magazine! At some point, and I have pretty much reached that point, pen turning gets boring, and it is reasonable to start looking for ways to make it interesting again. I think there are some splendid pens displayed here, and I am envious of the people who make them, and would like to try some of their techniques. There is probably a better market for the plainer pens, since the prices are lower, but more enjoyment in making and selling something more artful.
Thanks again for the nice comments.
Joe
What war would Jesus start?
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