When I go to shows, I like to have a few raw blanks with me. I like to be able to show what the designs look like prior to turning, especially any Celtic knot design. The six sided knots are the ones I'm most proud of because I don't know of anyone else that makes the blanks like I do. The only ones I had made are the ones on Etsy so I decided I better make one to have on hand. This one is obviously a six sided knot. Main wood is Chechen and the knot is Maple and Redheart. They
Demo Blank
- Thread starter KenB259
- Start date
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Alan Morrison
Member
Nicely done, Ken. Hopefully, when people see your blanks, they will start to understand the detailed work involved in pen making.
Woodchipper
Member
Good idea. Wish I had thought of it.
I placed a statement on the sign at my display, outlining the cost as determined by the kit, its finish and the cost of the blank used. This way: Why does this pen cost more than that one? They are the same! Look at car ads: Base price, $XXXXX, with options $YYYYYY which are a big % of the base price. Story: Looked at a pickup truck- base was $47K but it had $19 options added.
I placed a statement on the sign at my display, outlining the cost as determined by the kit, its finish and the cost of the blank used. This way: Why does this pen cost more than that one? They are the same! Look at car ads: Base price, $XXXXX, with options $YYYYYY which are a big % of the base price. Story: Looked at a pickup truck- base was $47K but it had $19 options added.
jttheclockman
Member
They really are not. In fact probably do not care. I have been down this road with my scrollsaw work. I have shown people works in progress and photos of the saw and things like that. yes you get the WOWs but that does not make more sales. I am saying this as only my opinion but a valid one from someone who has seen this tactic. I wish you luck and suggest to bring some raw materials so you can show starting process too.
I get lots of questions and people really appear interested. Does it spark sales? I don't know but it gives me a chance to interact with people in a positive way. I'm a little introverted so any conversation starter is good for me.
mark james
IAP Collection, Curator
I think your demo blanks will be very useful, and a customer favorite to understand what you have created. Well done! Many, many times while displaying the IAP Collection questions were expressed on "how?" It is a valid topic, and having examples like yours is a great learning tool.
jttheclockman
Member
Ken I hope it works for you. If you get woodworkers or pen turners they are interested probably. That is what I found. But most my customers were women and they nod and say nice things but I could see it means nothing. You can easily tell when someone is curious or not. Just like I have had people ask how I made a casted watch part pen but when you describe it the eyes glaze over. That is why I said bring some of the parts with you and show what goes into it. I use all the tricks to start conversations and I am not shy. At a show you have to be the sales person and involve the customer so whatever way works for you is a good way. Good luck. And yes it is always good to have the before and a finished pen so they can see what it looks like.