Brazilian Cherry is a whole different animal from what you're used to - a richer reddish tone with a subdued but distinct grain. With a craft show coming up, I wanted something different to display, and this fit the bill perfectly. The chrome hardware makes for a nice contrast.

So far as I know, I'm the only person who's ever turned a pen out of Marblewood, a South African wood that has distinct dark ribbons running through it, much like a marble. I made one for a buddy of mine a couple of years ago.

Bocote is one of those "Forrest Gump" woods: You never know what you're going to get. Well, that's not quite true, because you always find something really pretty on the inside. But some come out with subtle grains and some have a more dramatic contrast.

My all-time best seller -- a hefty ballpoint that uses the Parker T-Ball refill, which is available in fine, medium or gel. Given the size, you'd think this would be a "man's pen," but the truth is I've sold more to women than I have to men.

Because of the impressive look-and-feel, the moderate cost and the abundance of room for engraving, this is also my most popular choice for group orders, e.g. weddings, reunions, office gifts etc. (If you want it engraved, indicate that using the drop-down box and use the "comments" field when ordering to send me the desired text.)