Drewnem Pisane (Wood Written) - Behind the scene - How a fountain pen is made. Part 6. Wood – Burl.

The production of a pen seems to be simple, especially if someone has had experience with a lathe. What is it, roll the block, drill the shaft and then all that's left is to assemble the elements. Well, NO, NO and NO AGAIN. It all starts much earlier with the idea and materials. We will ignore the issue of ideas and focus on materials. First, a few words about wood:

Part 6. Wood – Burl.

Burl is caused by swelling on the wood. So everything is known. Swelling is a defect in the shape of wood - a growth that can be noticed among all tree species, mainly deciduous trees (maple, linden, poplar and birch). Most often birch wood with an abnormal arrangement of rings creating a beautiful, intricate pattern was called burl. Such growth disorders occur when the living part of the wood is damaged, when dormant buds are stimulated to grow - swelling and regrowth at the base of the linden trunk, or as a result of viral infection and tissue swaying. As a result, lumpy growths appear on the tree, and the wood shows a beautiful, irregular pattern in the form of swirls, circles, streaks and bands. Burls have been used to produce luxury furniture since the 18th century. A beautiful drawing on wood attracts attention and is therefore an extremely desirable material. It can be said that every larger tree in the forest already has its owner, who is waiting for that particular tree to be cut down. We also fight for every burl with real passion.