Not every day in the workshop has to end with something finished. Sometimes, the quiet days are where creativity rests, gathers strength, and slowly finds its way back to us. This is for every maker who needs to hear that slowing down does not mean giving up.

Not every project ends in success, and that's okay. In this heartfelt post, Marilyn shares the story of two pen blanks that unexpectedly blew out on the lathe and the valuable lessons learned along the way. Discover why mistakes are a natural part of craftsmanship, how setbacks help us grow, and why every maker has a few projects that never make it to the finish line.

Ben and I recently traveled to Raleigh, North Carolina, to attend the 40th Annual American Association of Woodturners (AAW) Symposium. From learning how to create a natural edge “Roly Bowl” to admiring extraordinary works from talented artists around the world, we returned home inspired, energized, and full of new ideas to bring back to the workshop. Join me as I share highlights from this unforgettable experience celebrating craftsmanship, creativity, and the incredible woodturning community.

Looking for a thoughtful gift for a wine lover, host, or home entertainer? Explore handmade gift ideas from Sassy’s Quills, including colorful resin coasters, corkscrews, wine stoppers, bread boards, cheese knives, and serving pieces made to be used, displayed, and remembered.

Sassy’s Quills preserves wedding flowers and meaningful blooms in resin, creating custom keepsakes from bouquets, memorial flowers, prom flowers, anniversary arrangements, and other special moments worth holding onto forever.

Learn what pen blanks are, how certified pen blanks add authentic history and meaning, and how Sassy’s Quills transforms each blank into a handcrafted woodturned pen made to be used, displayed, gifted, and treasured.

Choosing the right stain can completely transform a woodworking project, but getting that perfect finish takes more than just brushing on color. From sanding and prep work to understanding how different woods absorb stain, this beginner friendly guide breaks down the basics every maker should know.

What started as a creative hobby quickly turned into a full woodworking journey filled with trial, error, ruined resin pours, garage renovations, and lessons I never expected to learn. From rebuilding my workspace for harsh New England winters to discovering the patience this craft truly requires, this is the story of how Sassy’s Quills came to life.

What started as curiosity quickly became something much bigger. Through community, mentorship, trial and error, and countless hours in the shop, woodworking became more than a craft for Marilyn. It became a place of confidence, creativity, and connection.

Here are some beginner tips I wish someone had told me before I started.