Jack Daniel's is a brand of Tennessee whiskey and the highest selling American whiskey in the world. Each year, millions of barrels of whiskey are produced and sold. As part of the distilling process, the whiskey is aged in oak barrels.

The whiskey is aged in these barrels for 4 years. The used barrels are salvaged, the steel bands are removed, and the staves disassembled. Finally, the staves are cut into over-sized (7/8in. x 7/8in. x 5-1/4in. minimum) pen blanks.

My great grandfather, Stephen Ernest Whidden, was a carpenter. He ran a carpentry shop along with Mr. Decatur and Mr. Smith on the northeast corner of Broad Street and Lincoln Terrace in Peekskill, New York back in the 1920s. My grandfather, Ernest Richard Whidden, built airplanes for a living, but in his spare time he enjoyed carpentry.

Inspired by their legacy, I decided in 2014 to begin learning about woodworking. I purchased a lathe and began to make woodturned projects such as pens, keychains, winestoppers, and bowls. As I continue my journey, I intend to master my skills and produce both functional pieces and fine art.

The initial goal for this campaign is simple. Raise $500 to be able to purchase the materials and equipment needed to create and ship all of the rewards for each of our backers.

UPDATE 02/15/2015: Our initial goal has been 100% FUNDED!

Stretch Goal $1,000: This goal will allow us to purchase a chainsaw to assist in the collection of the wood for our shop to make pens, bowls, platters, and other creations.

UPDATE 02/16/2015: Our $1,000 stretch goal has been REACHED!

Stretch Goal $2,500: At this level, we will be able to purchase the equipment needed to setup our own craft fair stand including chairs, tables, banners, and display cases.

UPDATE 02/22/2015: Our $2,500 stretch goal has been REACHED!

Stretch Goal $5,000: With the additional funding, we will be able to set aside a down payment to purchase an engraving machine to allow us to personalize our pens with customized messages.

UPDATE 02/24/2015: Our $5,000 stretch goal has been REACHED!

Stretch Goal $10,000: The garage that we use currently for our woodshop needs some repairs and updates. At this level, we will be able to replace the old windows and doors, install heating, and put on a fresh coat of paint.

UPDATE 02/28/2015: Our $10,000 stretch goal has been REACHED!

Stretch Goal $25,000: (We can dream right?) This goal would allow for the purchase of a truck for wood collection as well as transportation to and from craft shows.

This campaign has already allowed me to creatively use my (somewhat limited) woodturning skills to make a unique and interesting item that people will enjoy. Your pledges will allow me to continue my ambitions, fund additional projects, and purchase the tools and equipment needed to continue creating in the future.

I enjoy creating unique projects with a story. Each of the rewards for this campaign include an authentic piece of American distilling history. Included with each reward is a certificate of authenticity and a story that you can share with your friends.

Remember each item is handcrafted and unique! There may be variances in wood coloring and grain. Your particular keychain or pen may look slightly different than the one in the picture. If you would like more or higher resolution pictures of the rewards, please let me know!

$20 Reward: Wood Keychain

 $30 Reward: Slim Style Ballpoint Pen

$40 Reward: Slim Style Ballpoint Pen & Pencil Set

$50 Reward: Rollerball Pen

 $60 Reward: Fountain Pen

 $50 Reward: Bolt Action Ballpoint Pen

$200 Reward: Ultimate Handcrafted Bundle