Thanks for the kind words. They are truly appreciated. I'll try to answer the questions that haven't already been answered.
Jeff is, of course, correct about the type of "wood." It's ebonite, hard rubber. And it smells like burning rubber when drilling, turning and sanding.
Rudy - if the proposal I'm working on doesn't preclude me from attending I will surely bring it to Louisville. As for the NoVa contingent, hopefully I'll have it at one of our get togethers in the next few weeks.
For those who have commented on my good fortune to have Kogaku-san to work with, he is but one of my many blessings. Some of your friendships rate right up their with the good things that life affords me. You know who you are and you know how greatful I am.
Hank - my favorite word in Japanese is still sake. As far as having a source, this was the result of a couple of months of effort on the part of a good friend. I purchased enough that I hope I'll at least get good at this before I run out. I'm not sure when or even if I will be able to get more.
Janet and Scott - I guess I'll have to keep this one since I don't want to come between friends.
Gerry, William, Jim and others - I may have created confusion with the Moreton Bay Fig. Serge DID introduce the wood to me, but afterwards I was able to locate some that was from the tree in Florida. Sometimes the cryptic nature of a forum results in confusion. No blood, no foul.
The time spent on this pen was ridiculous. Only someone with OCD would have made this kind of commitment. Of course, I have a couple more in process as we speak. When I have a little more time, I'll try to write up the procedure.
Ed - You're right about cultural exchanges. This is my fourth venture with my pen making and each has been amazingly rewarding. Here's a note that Kogaku-san sent. I think his intentions are quite obvious.
Lou sama
Thank you .To be sure,those are phtographs. It received.
Also me and my families are also very grad. Please get interested in Japanese Urusi or Makie workÂEÂEÂEI think that it is grad. From now on please lend power so that makie work fans increase in number in the world .
I expect that there is a day which can meet again.
Kogaku
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Master and friend, Kogaku-san
Again, thanks for looking, commenting and asking. The reward is in the sharing. [8D]