Meet Tim Cullen | Artist, Craftsman and Hand Engraver

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tim Cullen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tim, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I didn’t actually set out to start a business I think it just has sort of evolved organically. I am an artist and not really a business. I do make custom fountain pens that I sell, that is true. However for me it is more about the creative process than it is about money and I hope to continue this way.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a custom fountain pen maker that creates one of a kind writing instrument by way of commission. I thinks what sets me apart from most other fountain pen makers is that every piece I make is one of a kind. Also everything I make is completely handmade and hand engraved. I arrived at this point sort of accidentally. I am originally from Southern California and I studied to be a cabinet maker. The problem was in order to be a cabinet maker, I would need space for all the machinery and materials to make furniture. I started out in small garage and had to share my space with Christmas decorations and the kids bikes. I determined, I needed make something significant in a small space and one day someone asked me to turn them a simple kit pen on the lathe and that is how it all started 12 years ago. I started out making pens from pre made parts you can buy from any woodworking store. I quickly grew tired of the pre made kits and wanted to design and make my own pen from raw materials. It was difficult because there is really no type of training or schooling to be a custom pen maker. Everything it took to make a custom pen I had to learn on my own. From what specific tooling to materials. I spent a lot of time on YouTube. The lessons that I have learned is more about overcoming failure and not giving up and be restless. I want the world that I created Hooligan Georgia from nothing, just an idea that eventually came to life through very hard work and determination.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love Atlanta but what I love most about North Georgia is the natural beauty and the amazing hiking and biking trails. The waterfalls just a short drive from the city and the great places to see and eat. Once my friend arrived I would take him or her on a great hike to see a cool waterfall. The we e go to the best BBQ in all of Georgia, 441 South BBQ in Canton and then off the Variant Brewery in Roswell for the best beer you ever tasted. The hopefully its baseball season and we could catch a Braves game later that night.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
To my beautiful wife Tracy who inspires me every day to be creative and do my best work. She is the most supportive person and the best friend I have ever had.

Instagram: hooligan_georgia

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Hooliganpens