“Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the universe.” — Albert Einstein
Dear Drivel Starved Nation;
Two weeks ago I woke up in the middle of the night bothered by a couple of design decisions I made. This is not unusual, but it is rare when it happens AFTER we have announced a new product. Continue reading
Drivel Starved Nation-
I created this blog as a space where I can act like an idiot, insult our customers, shamelessly plug new product ideas, embarrass my grown children, create mayhem for the staff here, and occasionally share information that is actually interesting. That said, I sadly announce that we have some good news to share. Continue reading
"People ask me what I would most appreciate for my eighty-seventh birthday, I tell them, a paternity suit."— George Burns
Dear Drivel Starved Nation;
I have some really cool news regarding the Chopstick Master but I am going to save it until next week because it might get cooler… Continue reading
"I never run with scissors. Those last two words were unnecessary."— Unknown
Drivel Starved Nation-
John here, your favorite tool Potentate with a little news and some updates.
If you were not aware, we are about ready to enter our 33rd year. This fact explains the letter I received yesterday for “Discount Crematory Services”… If I am truly too stupid to quit Bridge City Tool Works, what makes me smart enough to croak in time for their big sale — what were these people thinking?
Continue reading
"One sees great things from the valley, only small things from the peak." — -G.K. Chesterton
Drivel Starved Nation!
I am pleased to share with you the proof that I have been sitting on my rear doing nothing something else this year other than making chopsticks! Continue reading
“Though I can and sometimes do use chopsticks, I much prefer using my hands to pee.” — Jarod Kintz
Drivel Starved Nation!
I am back from my third trip to Asia in the last six months and this was the best trip yet — I have lots of news to share.
I stopped by the factory producing the Chopstick Master and watched as the very first units were being boxed. This was so cool to see. Production right now is constrained to 1,000 units per month, but will dramatically increase at the first of the year. Here’s a pic; Continue reading
"Creativity isn’t about wild talent as much as it’s about productivity. To find new ideas that work, you need to try a lot that don’t. It’s a pure numbers game." — Robert Sutton
Drivel Starved Nation;
Sunday I leave for China, my third visit in the last six months. I must say, the experiences and friendships I have accumulated are lasting and incredibly rewarding. This may be the most fun six months of my BCTW business life. To think it took 32 years to have this much fun doesn’t say much for me does it? Oh well. Continue reading
“A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing.” — George Bernard Shaw
Dear Drivel Starved Nation;
The first production prototype came in last Thursday and I thought I would share with you a sneak peek. As mentioned, this item will be made completely in China and I think you will be thrilled with the quality.
Before we move on to the pictures, I want to thank all who commented on the logo – all my teachers in my life and my deceased parents would be pleased to learn that I do indeed listen.
"Don't believe everything you read on the internet."— Abraham Lincoln
Drivel Starved Nation:
This Thursday, I will host the final design review for the Chopstick Master—the production prototype is being hand delivered to Portland this week.
Never in my life did I ever expect to be responsible for a product that makes people so happy. Over the last 32 years, it seems all Bridge City has ever accomplished is the ability to piss people off because we don’t have “Made in China” prices. The irony is appropriate I suppose.
"When 99% of people doubt your idea, you're either gravely wrong or about to make history." — Scott Belsky
Dear Drivel Starved Nation-
Several weeks ago, over the Forth of July holiday, I traveled to Taipei to unveil the second generation of the Chopstick Master™. If you have never been to Taipei in July, it is hot. So hot in fact, on my cab ride to the exhibition hall I saw two trees fighting over a dog…
The second generation of the CSM saw the addition of a small sliding table and saw blade for making the pyramidal finial — think mini-Jointmaker Pro without any bells or whistles. Everything went without a hitch, and we made a lot of chopsticks as you will soon see.
Pictured below is version 3 and it is in production.
