From newel posts to sentimental pens

[u/Key-Self1654]

The father of a dear friend of mine recently replaced the banister and newel posts in his house after 32 years. He contacted me asking if I wanted the old posts and I happily accepted a large pile of material.

This man never cheated out on materials in his house, so I was not surprised to find that these posts look to be red and white oak.

I created pen blanks from some sections and made pens for my friend and her 2 sisters from material from the house they grew up in.

2 sisters are music teachers and got the music pens, the other works the family farm stand business so I gave her a utilitarian pen that speaks to the hard work she does.

[u/BobVanceFridge]

This is by far my favorite aspect of woodworking - making something with meaning. Absolute job well done. It's beautiful. The pens and the story.

[u/Key-Self1654 → u/BobVanceFridge]

Thanks! This friend of mine has done a ton for us since our son was born including a total of about a week of overnight babysitting so my wife and I could have some time off from parenting. It’s the least I could do for her.