Some pieces of wood refuse to give up their secrets easily, and this was one of the toughest I've ever turned. But sometimes, once you get it turned, I realize that it was simply protecting its inner beauty just because it was so incredible. That was the case with this piece of afzelia burl, a rare species from Southeast Asia.

I picked up this dark piece of wood on a whim, not really knowing what I'd find once I started turning it. At first, it seemed nondescript, but then its lovely burl-like patterns began to show themselves. Paired with bright copper fittings, the result is a warm, brown ballpoint with a fascinating subtle grain. In short, it's exactly the kind of pen that keeps me search for new woods and combinations.

Brazilian Cherry is a whole different animal from what you're used to - a richer reddish tone with a subdued but distinct grain. With a craft show coming up, I wanted something different to display, and this fit the bill perfectly. The chrome hardware makes for a nice contrast.

So far as I know, I'm the only person who's ever turned a pen out of Marblewood, a South African wood that has distinct dark ribbons running through it, much like a marble. I made one for a buddy of mine a couple of years ago.

Bocote is one of those "Forrest Gump" woods: You never know what you're going to get. Well, that's not quite true, because you always find something really pretty on the inside. But some come out with subtle grains and some have a more dramatic contrast.

This Perfect Fit is the first pen I've ever turned in Jobillo, but it certainly won't be my last. This Central American exotic has a dark heartwood with streaks of contrasting warm tones. And of course, the Perfect Fit is my personal favorite, when it comes to ballpoints.

This pen, made from Olivewood safely harvested from a the Holy Land, will remind you daily of the life and teachings of Christ. Besides being an important source for oil used in healings and rituals in biblical times, the Olive Tree has a wonderful grain that makes a gorgeous pen.

This is one of those cases where a very special piece of wood inspired me, and I spent all afternoon on this pen, but the result was worth it!

The Churchill screams "luxury!" and makes a statement like no other. It features a comfortable size for a man's or woman's hand, perfect balance, and a Mont Blanc-compatible point. I'm showing an extra-large photo so you can see the incredible grain.

I love this wood -- a warm color with dramatic grains that really call attention to a ballpoint. I'm going to start making more ballpoints in Bocote, but for now, this is the only one I have.

When I want a no-fuss, hardworking pen, this is the one I reach for. It opens with a solid "click" and writes like a dream. It uses the Parker T-Ball Jotter refill, which is available in fine, medium or gel.