2000+ seems a lot, but. But in the early nineties I noticed the man I worked for had a nice wooden pen and I asked him where he got it. I was working part time at a Woodworking store and the owners, Jim and Gloria, were the best Christens that I ever met. They were able to get Cindy and I back in church. anyway, Well, he said he made it. I said, Jim what does it take to make those. Jim replied "Sam, before you do this, I have to tell you it's addicting." I thought, yeah right. It's only a pen. Boy was I wrong. I got everything at that time to do pens. I found Berea, Craft supplies, Hut, Pen state and whoever else was out there. I was hooked. Went to every craft show I could find around my area. Noticed some fine pens and talked with the other turners. Learned the lesson of patience. Got good tools other than the ones that came with the lathe. Got the Tormec and kept
my tools sharp. But the most important lesson I learned was taking the time in sanding and finishing. After a while I actually had people asking if I would be back. Not swelling my head or patting my back, but taking time to sand it down and finish it well makes all the difference. So that's my story and I'm sticking to it. Thanks again for letting me on and all the greetings. I hope to learn from you guys and if ever I can be of help.
...sam