Tags
allergy, aroma, fountain pen, handcrafted pen, handmade pen, rollerball pen, scent, smell, wood
The sights and sounds of the work shop are intriguing and over time develop a familiar pattern. They are reassuring in a sense, almost providing comfort as you work. But, there is another sense that often overtakes your environment – smell. The varied scents that are part of the process of making pens can range from subtle to overpowering.
The Smells of Wood
There isn’t any universal truth to the smell of wood. Since wood is a natural product, its aroma varies greatly. Just like the many varied plants and spices there are also a variety of scents with wood. Some pleasant, some not as much. There are hundreds if not thousands of types of wood across the planet, so each new species is always an experience.
The Upside
Amboyna Burl Wood
Some woods can be very pleasant. For example, cedar has a pleasant smell (in smaller doses) and the shop smells nice after working with cedar. Amboyna has a pleasant smell, but it is strong and a bit overpowering.
Each wood is different and imparts its own character to the project while working on a handmade pen.
The Downside
Many types of wood produce unpleasant smells. Most are mildly obnoxious and can be dismissed, but some are downright dangerous. Many people are allergic to plants and wood is not an exception. Care must be taken to ensure that you breath the minimum amount of wood dust possible. Allergies can persist from both touching the wood and from breathing the dust. Even the smell of some types of wood can cause an allergic reaction.
Although the smell of the wood used never makes it to the finished product, it is nonetheless a unique experience. The smell of the wood will be forever sealed by the finish, so it is a pleasure (or curse) that the pen make will only experience.
William D. Ake invites you to view his handcrafted pens at http://www.mazurkapens.com. Each handmade pen is a unique work of art that can be enjoyed for years. Sign up for his newsletter to receive updates on his latest creations at http://www.mazurkapens.com/newsletter/
Handmade Pens - Mazurka Pens 