Pen Making With The Woodworker Himself

Imagine leaving Montreal with a unique keepsake that’s both functional and personal—a beautifully crafted wooden pen made by your own hands. That’s exactly what the Pen Making With The Woodworker Himself experience offers. So, if you’re looking for a creative activity that blends learning, craftsmanship, and a bit of fun, this workshop might be just what you need.

What we love about this experience is its hands-on approach where no prior woodworking skills are necessary, the friendly and knowledgeable guidance from Jonathan, and the chance to work with a variety of exotic and local woods to design a pen that truly reflects your style.

A small potential consideration is that the experience lasts around 3 hours, which is perfect for a half-day activity, but might feel a bit tight if you want to take your time. Still, for those wanting a focused, engaging workshop that results in a tangible, meaningful souvenir, this is an excellent pick.

This tour suits anyone curious about woodworking, those looking for a unique and memorable activity in Montreal, or travelers wanting a creative gift-making experience. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, you’ll find value in the process and the end product.

Good To Know

• Authentic craftsmanship: You craft your own pen from start to finish, creating a personal keepsake.
• Expert guidance: Jonathan’s friendly, patient instruction makes woodworking accessible for novices.
• Quality materials: A wide selection of exotic and local woods allows customization.
• Educational and fun: Learn the history of the lathe and the art of pen-making while enjoying a hands-on experience.
• Value for money: At $146.98, you leave with a handcrafted item and new skills.
• Flexible scheduling: If the listed times don’t fit, you can ask for accommodations.

Starting Point and Introduction

The workshop begins at 4710 Rue Saint-Ambroise in Montreal, a conveniently located spot close to public transportation. Expect a warm welcome from Jonathan, whose approachable manner is one of the standout parts of this experience, according to multiple reviews. One guest described him as “kind, patient, and very helpful,” emphasizing how he encourages participants to do as much as possible rather than just watching him work.

The initial part of the session is dedicated to understanding the history of the lathe, offering a quick but interesting background on its significance in woodworking. This sets the stage for what’s to come, giving you a sense of respect for the craft and an appreciation for the equipment you’ll be using.

Safety Briefing and Demonstration

Safety is front and center, with a comprehensive briefing ensuring everyone is comfortable operating the machinery. The instructor’s focus on safety underscores the workshop’s professional approach—no rushing, no cutting corners.

Following safety instructions, Jonathan provides a detailed demonstration of the pen-making process, covering turning, profiling, sanding, polishing, and assembling. This step-by-step guide is clear and approachable, even for complete beginners. Multiple reviewers noted how helpful Jonathan was during the process—”very helpful in assisting me in turning my pen” and “encouraged me to do the work myself.”

Choosing Your Wood

One of the most enjoyable parts of the workshop is selecting your wood. You’ll be offered a variety of exotic and local woods—each with its own character and color. The choice reflects personal style, and many participants appreciated how this added a layer of customization. Several reviews highlighted how the host gave options, allowing for a unique, handcrafted item.

Expect to see beautiful woods that vary in texture and hue, making your finished pen truly one-of-a-kind. This part of the experience is particularly satisfying, as it combines aesthetic appeal with the tactile joy of picking your materials.

Operating the Lathe and Creating Your Pen

Once the wood is chosen, the real work begins. Under Jonathan’s guidance, you’ll operate the lathe, shaping your pen with your own hands. This is the most engaging part—“you do everything yourself,” as one reviewer noted.

The process involves turning, profiling, sanding, and polishing, which not only results in a beautiful pen but also provides a sense of achievement. Several guests mentioned how rewarding it was to see their work take shape step-by-step, with the instructor’s supportive presence making it less intimidating.

Assembly and Final Touches

After shaping and polishing, you’ll assemble your pen. Jonathan ensures the process is clear, and the final product is polished and functional. The experience culminates with leaving with a handmade pen, which many describe as “lovely” and “something I can be proud of.”

One guest said, “It was very rewarding to turn, sand, polish and assemble,” emphasizing how the process transforms raw wood into a sleek writing instrument. It’s a tangible souvenir that captures your effort and creativity.

Flexibility in Scheduling

If the available dates don’t suit your plans, don’t worry—just reach out. The instructor is willing to accommodate different schedules, making this activity more accessible. This flexibility is a thoughtful touch, especially for travelers with packed itineraries.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The workshop begins and ends at the same location, making it easy to plan around. The activity lasts approximately 3 hours, providing ample time to work through each step comfortably without feeling rushed. With a group size limited to 9, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience with plenty of room for questions.

Price and Value

At $146.98 per person, this workshop offers good value considering you leave with a handcrafted, functional pen and new woodworking skills. Many reviews highlight the quality of the experience relative to the cost, with guests mentioning that it’s “worth the time and money.” The inclusion of a variety of woods and the hands-on nature make this a memorable activity worth the investment.

Multiple guests praised Jonathan’s friendly demeanor and expertise. One review highlighted, “Jonathan is very knowledgeable and a fun host,” adding that he lets participants actively do the work while providing support.

Another guest appreciated how “no prior experience is needed,” which makes this activity accessible to almost everyone. The encouragement and patience from the instructor, along with the safe environment, created a positive atmosphere for learners of all levels.

Several reviews commented on the quality of the finished product—they left with a beautiful, functional pen that they made themselves, often expressing surprise at their own capabilities. The fact that many participants said they’d recommend it or would do it again speaks to the overall satisfaction.

This workshop is ideal for creative souls, woodworking enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a meaningful activity in Montreal. It’s perfect if you want to try your hand at a new skill in a friendly environment. The process of selecting your wood, shaping it, and assembling your own pen offers a satisfying sense of accomplishment that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

Those interested in a personalized souvenir or unique gift will find this especially valuable. It’s also a great option for couples or small groups seeking an engaging, shared experience that’s both educational and fun.

While the price might seem on the higher side for some, the quality of instruction, the variety of materials, and the tangible end product justify the cost. Plus, you’ll leave not just with a lovely pen but with newfound confidence in your ability to work with wood.

Do I need prior woodworking experience?
No, the workshop is designed for beginners, and the instructor provides detailed demonstrations and support throughout.

What materials are included?
A selection of exotic and local woods is available for you to choose from, allowing for customization of your pen.

How long does the workshop last?
Approximately 3 hours, giving enough time for instruction, hands-on work, and finishing your pen.

Can I reschedule if I can’t make the scheduled time?
Yes, the instructor is willing to accommodate different schedules if contacted in advance.

Is the activity suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the reviews suggest it’s accessible for teens, but it’s best to confirm with the instructor if you have younger children.

What safety measures are in place?
A thorough safety briefing is provided before operating the lathe, ensuring a secure environment.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 9 travelers, which helps keep the experience personalized and focused.

What should I wear?
It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting slightly dusty or stained.

What do I take home?
A handcrafted wooden pen that you assemble during the workshop, along with new skills and a memorable experience.

If you’re after a creative, hands-on activity in Montreal that yields a beautiful keepsake and new skills, this pen-making workshop is an excellent choice. You get to learn from a friendly, knowledgeable guide, select from a variety of woods, and craft a functional item you can proudly use or gift.

The small group setting and personalized guidance make it accessible and enjoyable, whether you’re a craft novice or someone with some woodworking experience. The value you get—both in the experience and the finished product—is well worth the modest price, especially considering the memories created and the skill acquired.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a unique activity, this workshop provides a meaningful and fun way to spend a few hours in Montreal.