DwN: How did you get into pen design?

TRS: Pen design and making was an accident. In 2010 I hosted an event in Las Vegas and we wanted to give gifts to some people for their contribution to the program. I am a semi-professional woodworker with commissioned pieces around the nation and I mentioned that I could make something in my woodshop. I turned to the lathe and used some scrap pieces of burl wood to turn the pens. The recipients liked them so much than one gave me a $1,000 check and asked me to send him 10 additional pens. This was the start of the Fine Pen Gallery by T. Ramon Stuart.

DwN: What determines a “fine pen”?

TRS: Owning a fine writing pen is a state of mind. It is the craftsmanship coupled with the attention to detail that helps to marry the writer to the fine writing instrument.

DwN: Can you describe your pen design process?

TRS: The pen design process starts with the client. We have a detailed conversation about interests, writing habits, and style. I then use this conversation to design a pen that I think fits the needs of the customer. The process is time consuming, but worthwhile because the final writing instrument becomes an extension of the owner.

DwN:  Who are some of the people you have designed pens for?

TRS: At this point, I sell pens to many African American business people and pen aficionados around the nation. My client list is extensive and includes former Major League Baseball executives, law firm partners, university presidents, and healthcare executives. Talks are underway to brand and market a designer line of pens for a corporation and a Greek fraternity. I also have a growing population of individuals curious about fine writing instruments.

DwN: Where would you like to see the business go?

TRS: My goal is to keep the personal touch on each of my fine writing instruments. The business grows on a yearly basis, but what keeps customers coming back is the attention to detail, craftsmanship, and the ability to become one with their personalized writing instrument. As long as this practice continues, the business will continue to see growth and expansion while meeting and exceeding the expectations of our customers.

DwN © 2017