Dr. Ken’s journey into woodworking began as a simple hobby and has grown into a deep passion for crafting beautiful and functional pieces. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about transforming raw wood into unique, handmade items that bring joy and utility to people’s lives. Among his creations, wooden pens, charcuterie boards, and cheese cutting boards hold a special place.
Ken's Workshop
The Joy of Creation
The process of creating these wooden items is immensely fulfilling. It starts with selecting the right piece of wood, considering its grain, color, and texture. The transformation from a rough piece of lumber to a polished, functional item is a journey of creativity, patience, and skill.
Crafting Wooden Pens
Artistry in Writing Instruments: Creating wooden pens allows me to combine functionality with artistry. Each pen is meticulously crafted, starting with selecting the right type of wood. I often use woods like maple, walnut, and exotic species like cocobolo or purpleheart for their unique grain patterns and rich colors.
Attention to Detail: The process involves shaping the pen blanks, sanding them to a smooth finish, and applying a protective coating that highlights the natural beauty of the wood. The result is a writing instrument that is not only practical but also a piece of art. Each pen is unique, with its own character and story.
Personalization: One of the aspects I love most is the ability to personalize each pen. Engraving names, initials, or special messages adds a personal touch that makes these pens perfect for gifts and keepsakes. It’s rewarding to know that something I created can become a cherished item for someone else.
Designing Charcuterie Boards
Versatile and Elegant Serving Pieces: Charcuterie boards are a joy to create because they blend functionality with elegance. I carefully select hardwoods like cherry, walnut, and oak to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal. Each board is designed to be both a beautiful serving piece and a practical kitchen tool.
Creative Expression: Crafting charcuterie boards allows for a lot of creativity. From the shape and size to the combination of different woods, each board is a unique creation. I often incorporate elements like juice grooves, handles, and custom engravings to enhance both the functionality and visual appeal.
Perfect for Entertaining: Knowing that my charcuterie boards are used to present delicious spreads of meats, cheeses, fruits, and nuts during gatherings is incredibly satisfying. They are not just boards; they are the centerpiece of many memorable moments and celebrations.
Making Cheese Cutting Boards
Precision and Care: Cheese cutting boards require precision and care in their creation. I focus on ensuring that each board is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional. The right size, thickness, and finish are crucial to creating a board that performs well and looks great.
Durable and Long-Lasting: Using high-quality hardwoods, I craft boards that are durable and long-lasting. The natural properties of wood make these boards gentle on knives, helping to keep blades sharp while providing a sturdy surface for cutting and serving cheese.
Adding Personal Touches: Like with my other creations, I enjoy adding personal touches to cheese cutting boards. Custom engravings, unique shapes, and combining different wood types all contribute to making each board a special piece that reflects my craftsmanship and creativity.