Pen Making With The Woodworker Himself

Imagine spending a few hours in Montreal not just sightseeing, but actually creating something tangible with your own hands. That’s exactly what this pen making workshop offers — an engaging, practical experience where you’ll learn about woodworking, operate a lathe, and leave with a beautiful, handcrafted pen. It’s perfect for those curious about woodworking or looking for an authentic, memorable activity during their stay.

What we love about this experience is how it combines education with creativity. First, you get to understand the history and mechanics of the lathe in a short, digestible introduction. Second, the guided hands-on approach—where you operate the lathe yourself—makes the process both rewarding and personal. The only possible downside is the limited group size, which might feel a little intense if you prefer large, impersonal workshops. Still, for those who want a close, guided experience, this is a winner.

This activity suits travelers who enjoy DIY projects, craftsmanship, or unique souvenirs. Whether you’re visiting Montreal alone, as a couple, or with a family, this workshop offers an authentic, fun way to engage with local artisanship. It’s especially ideal if you’re looking for a creative activity that produces a tangible result in just a few hours.

Key Points

• Authentic craftsmanship: Create a personal, handcrafted pen with guidance from an experienced woodworker.
• Educational and fun: Learn about the history of the lathe and the art of woodworking while getting hands-on experience.
• All skill levels welcome: No prior experience needed; even beginners leave with a finished product.
• Flexible scheduling: The host is willing to accommodate different dates and times.
• Small group setting: With a maximum of nine travelers, you get personalized attention.
• Great value: For just under $147, you gain skills, a unique souvenir, and a memorable experience.

The Experience: Step-by-Step Breakdown

Meeting and Introduction

The workshop begins at 4710 Rue Saint-Ambroise in Montreal, a convenient location near public transportation. Once you arrive, you’ll meet your instructor, Jonathan, who is praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and patient. The first few minutes are spent establishing safety protocols — this is crucial because working with a lathe can be dangerous if not handled properly.

Discovering the Lathe’s History

The session kicks off with a brief overview of the lathe’s history and parts, giving you context about this traditional woodworking tool. This background makes the subsequent steps more meaningful, as you’ll understand the machinery you’ll be operating.

Demonstration and Safety Briefing

Jonathan provides a detailed demonstration of the entire pen-making process—turning, profiling, sanding, polishing, and assembling—so you see exactly what’s involved before you start. The safety briefing ensures everyone feels confident to operate the equipment, knowing how to avoid hazards.

Choosing Your Wood

A variety of exotic and local woods are available for selection, each with unique textures and colors. Picking your preferred wood is a satisfying step, giving your finished pen a personal touch that reflects your style or memory.

Your Hands-On Turn

This is where the workshop truly shines. Guided by Jonathan’s expert advice, you’ll operate the lathe yourself, shaping the wood into a sleek pen. Multiple reviews emphasize how rewarding this part of the experience is — “It was very rewarding to turn, sand, polish and assemble,” said one happy participant. Expect to spend a good chunk of time turning the wood and refining your piece.

Finishing and Assembly

After shaping, you’ll sand and polish your pen to a smooth, shiny finish. Then, the components are assembled into a functional and elegant writing instrument. The result is a personal keepsake that captures your creativity and effort.

Wrap-up and Takeaway

Once complete, you’ll leave with your custom-made pen, a tangible reminder of your Montreal visit. Many reviewers mention how proud they felt holding their finished product — a testament to the workshop’s success.

What Makes It Worthwhile?

Personal Engagement and Guidance

Multiple reviews highlight Jonathan’s kindness, patience, and expertise. Participants say he encourages you to do the work yourself, providing support without taking over. This empowering approach makes the final product more meaningful.

The Quality of the Result

For a three-hour class, the quality of the finished pen is impressive. Many guests mention their surprise at how professionally it turns out, especially given no prior experience. The variety of woods adds a layer of customization, ensuring that each pen is unique.

Educational Value

This isn’t just a craft class; it’s also an opportunity to learn about woodworking in a safe, supportive environment. The demonstration and safety briefings give you a newfound appreciation for the craft, which many reviews praise.

Authentic Connection

Travelers appreciate the personal touch of learning directly from a local artisan. It’s an experience that feels genuine, unlike mass-produced souvenirs or typical tourist activities.

Cost-Beauty Balance

While $146.98 might seem steep for a short workshop, the value comes from the skill learned and the quality of the pen. Participants leave with a handcrafted item, a new skill, and a memory that’s worth more than the sum of its parts.

Practical Details and Considerations

This activity is well-suited for most travelers as it requires no special skills or physical strength. The group size is small, which enhances the learning experience but also means spots can fill up quickly—most bookings are made an average of 48 days in advance. The activity lasts about 3 hours, so it fits comfortably into a half-day schedule.

Meeting at a central location near public transit makes it accessible, and the flexible scheduling means you can coordinate a time that suits your plans. Since most travelers can participate, it’s an inclusive activity that’s perfect for friends, couples, or solo travelers seeking a creative challenge.

Cancellation Policy and Flexibility

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind should your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

The reviews underscore how this workshop isn’t just about making a pen; it’s about connecting with a craft that’s been practiced for generations. Many mention how the experience is both fun and educational, and how Jonathan’s friendly demeanor enhances the overall experience. You might find this activity especially rewarding if you enjoy learning new skills, connecting with artisans, or simply creating something beautiful with your own hands.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This?

This pen-making workshop is an excellent choice for travelers who appreciate craftsmanship, hands-on activities, and authentic local experiences. It’s particularly suited for those seeking a memorable, tangible souvenir from Montreal or a unique date activity. The combination of expert guidance, small group intimacy, and a finished product that you can keep makes it a worthwhile addition to any trip.

While it might not appeal if you’re looking for a large group or a quick activity, it offers genuine value for anyone wanting to learn a new skill and take home a handcrafted item. Plus, with glowing reviews praising the instructor’s patience and friendliness, you’re likely to walk away not just with a pen, but with a sense of accomplishment and a story to tell.

FAQ

Is prior woodworking experience necessary? No, the workshop is designed for complete beginners. Most participants leave with a professional-looking pen, even with no prior experience.

How long does the activity last? Approximately 3 hours, allowing enough time for instruction, hands-on work, and finishing touches.

Can I choose the wood for my pen? Yes, there is a selection of exotic and local woods, so you can pick your favorite or one that holds personal meaning.

Is the meeting location accessible? Yes, the workshop takes place at a central location in Montreal that’s near public transportation.

What is the group size? A maximum of 9 travelers, which ensures personalized attention and guidance.

What if I want to reschedule? You can reach out for flexible scheduling, and the provider will do their best to accommodate your preferred date and time.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund, giving you peace of mind in case your plans change.

This workshop offers a distinctive, engaging way to spend time in Montreal—combining craftsmanship, education, and a memorable keepsake. Whether you’re a craft enthusiast or just curious about woodworking, it’s a creative activity that delivers on authenticity and value.