Christmas Gifts 2008

I think this was my favorite Christmas when it comes to Christmas shopping. The reason why is that I did very little … shopping. I made most of my gifts in the workshop, a few of which are posted here. I did a large number of pens with each one being selected for the recipient. I considered whether they would be more inclined to use a Slimline, Euro or Cigar Style. What kind of wood would they like. Then I custom made gift boxes for each one. I also made a clock for my lovely wife who has been so supportive and encouraging in my wood working.

The only thing better than making the gifts was watching the reaction of people as they opened them and realized this wasn’t just something I picked up in a store, but was something of quality that I handcrafted just for them. I poured my heart into each gift making it just right, and excitedly imagining the reaction when it would be opened on Christmas Day.

My sister who is an author of fiction books, wrote this in her blog:

“Jim gave mom and I each beautiful wood carved pens. So carefully turned and polished it actually gets warm as I write. Last night when I got home the power was out and I decided to write these thoughts on paper. I used my new pen. Jim it seems like it has a life of it’s own. It’s an instrument made for a writer. As I wrote it warmed under my fingers. The ink flowed smoothly and it made me want to write more. It is a special pen Jim. I will care for it well. We will write stories together.”

It was so cool to have that kind of a response.

I can’t say enough about how good it feels to craft a gift in my workshop! For me it just doesn’t compare to “Christmas Shopping”.

-- Jim Sollows --- Langley BC Canada --- www.sollows.ca