September 22, 2025

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Happy Monday, turners!

This fall, we’re running a brand-new Monday newsletter series designed to help you sell your finished pens and other projects — and maybe even cover the cost of your turning hobby.

Last week we talked about how to build a good product offering for a show, but let's be honest: craft shows and markets aren’t for everyone.

So, today we’re diving into creative ways to get your work out there without setting up a booth.

Think weddings

Weddings are big business, and handcrafted pieces add that perfect personal touch.

From custom pens for guest gifts and bridal party keepsakes to elegant bottle stoppers or a salt & pepper set for the couple’s new home, wedding planners and venues are always looking for unique ideas.

Imagine a beautiful, handcrafted pen alongside the guest book — it’s a detail couples will love.

TIP: Contact local wedding venues, planners, and photographers to offer customized items as unique guest gifts, bridal party keepsakes, or even wedding favors.

Professional gifts

Lawyers, accountants, real estate agents, and other professionals are always looking for classy gifts for clients - and if there's a local or Canadian connection, even better!

A hand-turned pen makes a classy choice, but so do key rings, wine stoppers, or even desk sets.

TIP: Reach out directly, or drop off a sample with a local office and include your card. Sometimes seeing (and holding) is all it takes.

Organizations and associations

Associations, chambers of commerce, and local clubs and organizations always need speaker or thank-you gifts for conferences and annual meetings.

Offering handcrafted options like pens, kitchenware, or gift sets shows them something special beyond the usual plaque or gift basket. Christmas is also a good time for holiday or employee recognition gifts with local employers.

TIP: Search for associations or organizations in your area, and look at their coming events calendars to see what they might have coming up. Consider a bundle deal or offering as they'll often need more than one gift.

Milestone celebrations

Businesses celebrating anniversaries, schools marking achievements, or community groups honouring volunteers — these are all chances to suggest personalized, made-in-Canada gifts.

Whether it’s an engraved pen, a set of stopper-and-pourers, or a pair of custom salt & pepper mills, your work will stand out. If possible, offer engraving of a logo or other special recognition.

TIP: Check local news sources and Facebook groups, for example, ask local businesses you buy from or work with, or network with people you know in the community for ideas.

Take the first step

Don’t wait for someone to come to you — introduce yourself! Bring along a sample piece (pen, bottle stopper, or key ring) and a simple card with your contact information, a link to a website or Facebook page, and a general price range for your products. Holding your work in their hands is often what seals the deal.

Gift ideas at a glance:

• Handcrafted pens and pencils
• Bottle stoppers
• Salt & pepper sets
• Key rings
• Kitchenware projects (coffee scoops, wine pourers, etc.)

We’ll be back next Monday with ideas on how to make the perfect product pitch to a potential customer — so you can spend more time in the shop and still see your hobby pay for itself.

Happy turning,

The William Wood-Write team