Hovering over the spinning lathe in their family’s Torrance garage, Cody and Chad Simon whittle away at the small block of wood.
It only takes a few minutes before the sharp corners begin to disappear and the final form begins to take shape. They varnish it and slide metal pieces into place.
Another one of the hundreds of pens the pair have made is finished.
Part hobby, part business, making pens is not only a relaxing way to spend time, but also a way to make a little money. They spent their summer selling writing instruments to neighbors and save whatever money they earn for college.
“We just decided to do it,” said 15-year-old Cody, who attends South High School. “We get the lathe for free and we started selling them door to door.”
After impressing their neighbors, the duo branched out to selling them on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Displayed in a fancy case, the pens are hard to resist. Torrance Mayor Frank Scotto is an avid customer, the boys said.
They’ve learned something about human psychology along the way.
“Men like thicker pens,” said 13-year-old Chad, who attends Calle Mayor Middle School. “Women like skinnier ones.”
Photo by ChadandCody.com.
Rich Foster on September 27th, 2007 at 6:59 pm
I too started my own business back when I was about 6 yrs. old. I am now 18. I completely I have recently come across a new video business directory that is free. It is http://www.MeetMyBiz.tv
The site has just recently launched. I am among the first to join this directory. It seems to be fairly comprehensive for the everyday business owner. I am hoping it will be a good networking opportunity that will mesh connecting with other business people and growing my business.
Saptarshi on September 27th, 2007 at 9:15 pm
Interesting hobby to have!! Don’t know how many pens they will be able to manufacture, but if they can bulk manufacture should become a pretty profitable business…. But more than the money, I think its the joy of what you are doing matters!!
So my best wishes to the 2 brothers!!