About us
Richard and Catherine Daly, residents of the charming town of Kells, nestled in Ireland's heritage-rich county of Meath, are living their dream every single day!
When someone asks, "What do you do for a living?" they respond with boundless enthusiasm...
"We're in the business of spreading joy! We create gifts that bring immense pride to those who give them and sheer delight to those who receive them. Our creations are a heartfelt connection to the beauty of Ireland, solving the timeless dilemma of what to give to someone who seems to have everything. Because really, who wouldn't cherish a meticulously crafted writing instrument fashioned from the finest Irish wood, paying homage to our nation's rich literary legacy and celebrating the unspoiled splendor of our natural landscape? It's more than just a pen; it's a piece of Ireland's soul."
It may be a mouthful, but that's the passion they pour into each and every pen they lovingly craft.
Their journey began in 2014, when they bravely left behind the corporate world to pursue their shared dream. With the unwavering support of their children, they embarked on this exhilarating adventure together.
Richard proudly continues a woodworking tradition that runs deep in his family, spanning three generations of master craftsmen. As for Catherine, her award-winning expertise as a hairstylist seamlessly translates into an innate talent for design and color, infusing their creations with a vibrant sense of style.
While their business initially started with crafting wooden bowls and various woodwork, it was the creation of pens that truly ignited their passion. The satisfaction they derive from crafting each pen is palpable, evident in the gleaming finish and impeccable craftsmanship—qualities that their clients rave about!
Over the past eight years, they've honed their techniques, striving to produce the finest writing instruments imaginable. Their dedication extends beyond the pens themselves; they've meticulously curated every aspect of the gifting experience, ensuring that each recipient feels truly cherished.
Amidst it all, their love for each other continues to thrive, filling every day with laughter and joy. They're immensely grateful to their loyal clients, whose unwavering support has transformed Irish Pens into the success story it is today.
With hearts full of gratitude and hands busy creating, Richard and Catherine Daly are living proof that when you follow your passion, happiness truly knows no bounds!
If you would like to char email Richard at richard@irishpens.ie
What goes into making one of our Irish Bog Oak pens
Where the crafting takes place
In the workshop!
Selecting the most exciting grain in the wood for our pens
We cut the wood into pen blanks on my Dad's bench saw; I used to clean the sawdust out of this machine every Saturday in my early teens and sell it to the local butcher for his floor; great days.
We store our wooden pen blanks in this old parts rack that came out of a local garage which closed over 20 years ago.
We drill the wooden blanks and glue in the brass tubes; it's vital that the tubes are centred and the correct size for the pen it is to create
And now for the fun part, it's time to sculpt the pen on the lathe.....
Not that way, Catherine! And it's safety glasses; you do not need sunglasses!!
Let the professional at it! :-)
We turn, sand and finish all our pens in the workshop; assembly and posting are done in the office.
Finished pen ready for its new home
Thanks for taking the time to review what we do; as we say
Loving what we do every day
Ireland has some beautiful forests to enjoy and inspire.
The workshop is in our garden, a great place to be creative.