Stopping By Woods is the brainchild of Cristi and Ben Richards. From the time he was a small boy growing up in central Texas, Ben was fascinated by all forms of old pens and writing instruments.  Spending much of his time hiking and camping in Texas, New Hampshire and Montana, he also fell in love with the woods and the quiet solitude they could provide.  Cristi spent her childhood in Central Indiana before moving to Massachusetts.  In both, Cristi felt the strong pull of the wide open spaces and quiet woodlands.  After moving to Hawai’i we tried our hands at wood turning and the rest is history.  Having long been inspired by the tranquility of the woods, we hope to bring a piece of this natural beauty to you in each of our pens.  Our passion is transforming each unique piece of wood from a rough form into a magnificent work of art.

You can find us on the windward side of Oahu in the shadow of Nu’uanu Pali, the tallest peak in the Ko’olau mountain range.  Our town of Kailua has been home to Hawai’ian families who fished the local waters and made their homes on the slopes around Kawainui Marsh for nearly 1,500 years.  In the 16th century, Kailua attracted the ali’i (Hawai’ian chiefs) and became the capitol of Oahu.  Many legends were born including those of the menehune, who worked at night in Kawainui Marsh and mo’o who took the form of a large lizard that attracted fish.  Today Kailua is a bustling town, home to many artisans and craftsman who continue to work in the shadow of Nu’uanu Pali.  The beauty of Kaiwainui Marsh, the Ko’olau Mountains and our spectacular beaches continue to be an inspiration for our designs.