A Trip to Folkcraft Instruments

 

We were driving to Indianapolis on Friday, heading down the highway on a beautiful October day, when I looked up from my stitching project and saw the sign for the next exit.

"Did that say Woodburn?" I asked my husband.

"Yep."

"That's where Folkcraft Instruments has their showroom! That's where my dulcimer was made!"

"Do you want to go?" Ed asked.

"Sure!"

So we made a slight detour to visit the small town of Woodburn.

In my head, I was thinking "Showroom = Store". When I got to the door, which was locked, a sign was posted that said if you'd like to come inside, call this number. So of course, I called the number, spoke with someone who said they'd be right there, and waited.

And the door was opened by Richard Ash, the owner of the company. He graciously allowed me to come in and basically dropped everything he was doing to give me a tour of the facility and introduce me to all of the craftspeople who make these amazing products.

He explained every step in the process and showed me every machine that was involved.

And of course, he had me sit down and try a few instruments on for size. No pressure! ha ha

They were lovely. I can totally understand the craftsmanship that goes into each distinct instrument.

They also sell a LOT of books and accessories, including gig bags that are handmade by a talented seamstress named Pam.

I saw a small display of Irish tin whistles and told him "That's going to be my next instrument."

"Well here you go," Richard said, and handed me a red Clarke whistle in the key of D. "Here's a souvenir for you. You can have it."

How sweet was that? I told him I'd be going home and placing an order, which I did. And I also told him I'd be saving pennies for my next custom instrument from him.

I've been having a lot of fun playing my new whistle, too. I even ordered a book that features music for dulcimer and whistle. Woodwind instruments are a natural fit for me, as I have experience playing the clarinet and saxophone from my school days.

It's so fun to "talk shop" with people who are passionate about the same things that I love. And it is such a blessing to meet kindred spirits who are kind and who take the time to share their knowledge and their love.

What a fun impromptu adventure!