WHAT DOES CHESS HAVE IN COMMON WITH A BRANCH PEN?

When playing chess, you have to take responsibility; it is impossible to correct a move unless the opponent is particularly favorable. Of course, this is permissible for beginners for educational purposes. But it is completely forbidden during the tournament.

By purchasing a tree branch pen, you are making a conscious choice to stop using plastic pens. It's a tiny move, as a pawn does at the beginning of the game. But let's not underestimate the pawns; when they are connected, it is a huge force.

ABOUT LIFE WITHOUT PLASTIC

This is what our fight for a plastic-free life looks like: one pen of tree branches goes up against an entire army.

It is necessary to become finned like a pine tree and clearly say, "NO TO PLASTIC!"

My tools

My first tool was this knife, which I used to cut the branch in half and clean out the core. It took a lot of time—20–30 minutes on average—because then the split branch was glued. 

Now I use a regular, old-fashioned hand drill and loppers. Of course, sandpaper is also used for cleaning.

How is a pen made?

The very first step is to find a suitable branch, because not all are suitable. Here's an example. I was walking and saw such a branch, which everyone passes by indifferently.

 And look how cute pens came out of it!