I just had a few ideas on how to cut corners, and maybe dampen enthusiasm a bit.
First, don't engrave the Hobbit Hole logo on any more knives. Saves $5 per knife, and about a week in turnaround time. I'd actually be pretty much caught up from the current rush if I had about two dozen Gerbers, and didn't have to have them engraved. The Camillus folding knife will be engraved at the factory, since I decided to get all 100 at once. At the current rate, one hundred could last years, since requests for sheath knives run about 20-to-1. And I make sure that sheath knives don't go to remfs. Never had to deny anybody yet, because I'm hearing from line units.
Second, an article from someone OTHER than me, explaining why donations are always welcome. This would be at the Hobbit Hole site.
Third, some sort of limited appeal here on FR. Again, we have to explain quite clearly that if we were a tax-exempt foundation, we'd never be able to ship a knife. Now if a lawyer wanted to donate those efforts ...
Anyway, those are some quick ideas from me. I can have some "business cards" printed up with our Hobbit Hole info on them, in lieu of the engraving. I'm including a similar card from Camillus already.
I think all that sounds good.
we'll do the site update.. and a thread next week when it's done.
dont know how much good it will do, as I think I have about four people who regularly visit my site, but I can post on the Hobbit Hole needing donations tomorrow!!
I'd be OK with doing away with the logo... it's sorta sad, but when you figure in the cost, and that it's what... maybe the cost of one knife in four or five... perhaps it could go.
I've also had this recurring nightmare about a "hobbit-hole" engraved knife stolen or otherwise misused in some horribly public and CNN-televised fashion. I'm sitting there in the green vinyl chair saying "I'm sorry Senator, I don't recall..." and then I wake up. :-)