Pen Turning

1 - I can do better 2 - Jury's out 3 - Pretty darn good 4 - Splendiferous 5 - Awesometastic by 2 people | Log in to rate

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Welcome to my page on Pen Turning

I started wood turning in January. I enjoy pen turning. My experiences with this new hobby will be shared with others starting out. I researched this hobby for a year before purchasing my first lathe. The amount of information is overwhelming. I intend to share the basics in an easy to understand manner.

New Penturning Products 

June 2009

Robert Sorby Micro Sandmaster SetThis scaled-down, free-spinning inertia sander is your ticket to smoothing hard-to-reach
areas in delicate bowls, vases, and other hollow turnings. Includes a fully
adjustable head, eight versatile adhesives, and a modular aluminum handle that
accepts a wide range of blades and other turning attachments.

Robert Sorby Micro Sandmaster Set

Robert Sorby Micro Sandmaster Set




Robert Sorby Micro Spindle SetWith a durable aluminum handle and three interchangeable blades,this modular set
quickly transitions from one turning tool to the next. Perfect for pen turning and
other small spindle work! It includes a 1/2'' gouge, 1/4'' skew and 5/32''
beading/parting tool to produce beautiful, intricate pieces. For those who already
own the handle, each blade is also available individually.

Robert Sorby Micro Spindle Set

Robert Sorby Micro Spindle Set




Robert Sorby Micro Sandmaster Abrasive Discs1'' diameter sanding discs for use with the Robert Sorby Micro Sandmaster Set. Sold
in packs of 10.

Robert Sorby Micro Sandmaster Abrasive Discs

Robert Sorby Micro Sandmaster Abrasive Discs




Denim Woodturner's ApronStay safe while turning! Heavy-duty, comfortable design protects you from flying
chips and shavings, and keeps dust from getting into your shirt.

Denim Woodturner's Apron

Denim Woodturner




Pen Turning with Barry Gross, DVDWatch and learn as master pen maker Barry Gross demonstrates the fun and art of
pen turning. He covers everything from tool selection to finishing techniques -
even how to sell completed pens - in a unique, step-by-step style that informs,
educates, and instills confidence. A must for every beginner, this DVD offers tips and
tricks for even the most experienced turners. 78 minutes.

Pen Turning with Barry Gross, DVD

Pen Turning with Barry Gross, DVD

New Penturning Products 

May 2009

Padauk Pen BlankThese rich crimson blanks produce striking pens with a classy, natural look.
An exotic wood with excellent turning properties, Padauk can be polished to
a beautiful finish. Blanks measure roughly 6" x 3/4" x 3/4".

Padauk Pen Blank

Padauk Pen Blank




Myrtle Burl Pen BlanksThese nicely figured blanks will produce beautiful pens with great depth and
variety. Myrtle is a fairly easy wood to work with and takes finish quite well.
Blanks measure approximately 6" long by 3/4" square.

Myrtle Burl Pen Blanks

Myrtle Burl Pen Blanks




Yellowheart Pen BlankTurn a beautiful, naturally colored pen with this gorgeous yellowheart blank.
Relatively easy to turn, yellowheart polishes to a high finish and supplies
consistently bright yellow tone throughout. Blanks measure roughly
6-1/8" x 13/16" x 13/16".

Yellowheart Pen Blank

Yellowheart Pen Blank




Eucalyptus Burl Pen BlankUniquely figured with squirrely burls, these fine eucalyptus blanks create
beautiful finished pens. They are hard, dense and will take a high polish.
Blanks measure approximately 6" long by 3/4" square.

Eucalyptus Burl Pen Blank

Eucalyptus Burl Pen Blank




Chechen Pen BlankA favorite among pen turners for its irregular grain and beautiful color
variation, Chechen produces fantastic finished pieces. These blanks are great
samples, featuring wavy striping and rich chocolate and butterscotch tones.
Hard and dense, they will polish to a gleaming finish with little effort. Blanks
measure approximately 6" long by 3/4" square.

Chechen Pen Blank

Chechen Pen Blank

New Penturning Products 

December 2008

Titebond Instant Bond Wood AdhesiveAvailable in four unique viscosities, these high-performance cyanoacrylate
(CA) adhesives take just 5 - 15 seconds to set and 30 - 60 seconds for initial
cure. For even faster ahesion, the Instant Bond Activator cuts set time nearly
in half! Available in 2 or 4 oz. bottles.

Titebond Instant Bond Wood Adhesive

Titebond Instant Bond Wood Adhesive




Bethlehem Olive Wood Pen BlankThis blank comes from Bethlehem, Israel, and is crafted from trees with roots
dating back to biblical times. Measuring 5-1/2" long x 3/4" square, it
showcases a unique, wavy grain that offers sharp contrast to the light toned
olive wood.

Bethlehem Olive Wood Pen Blank

Bethlehem Olive Wood Pen Blank




Green Acrylic Acetate Jumbo BlankWith great workability and fine polishing properties, acrylic acetate is a
spectacular pen-turning material. These blanks feature rich coloring and a
beautiful speckled design. Measuring just over 5" long by 3/4" square, they
will accommodate most kits on the market.

Green Acrylic Acetate Jumbo Blank

Green Acrylic Acetate Jumbo Blank




Olivewood Pen BlankFeaturing captivating streaks of dark and yellowish brown, this earthly
specimen has an understated, natural aura. Beautiful wood with great
turning properties. Blank measures 5" long x 3/4" square.

Olivewood Pen Blank

Olivewood Pen Blank




Royal Blue Acrylic Acetate Pen BlankWith great workability and fine polishing properties, acrylic acetate is a
spectacular pen-turning material. These blanks feature rich color and a
beautiful speckled design. Measuring just over 5" long by 3/4" square, they
are big enough to accommodate most any kit on the market.

Royal Blue Acrylic Acetate Pen Blank

Royal Blue Acrylic Acetate Pen Blank




Navy Blue Acrylic Acetate Jumbo Pen BlankWith great workability and fine polishing properties, acrylic acetate is a
spectacular pen-turning material. These blanks feature rich coloring and a
beautiful speckled design. Measuring just over 5" long by 3/4" square, they
will accommodate most any kit on the market.

Navy Blue Acrylic Acetate Jumbo Pen Blank

Navy Blue Acrylic Acetate Jumbo Pen Blank




Orange Acrylic Acetate Jumbo Pen BlankWith great workability and fine polishing properties, acrylic acetate is a
spectacular pen-turning material. These blanks feature rich coloring and a
beautiful speckled design. Measuring just over 5" long by 3/4" square, they
will accommodate most any kit on the market.

Orange Acrylic Acetate Jumbo Pen Blank

Orange Acrylic Acetate Jumbo Pen Blank




Desert Camo Pen BlankThis 5" long by 5/8" square blank combines three colors in a diagonal
laminate design for a striking visual effect that produces gorgeous pens.

Desert Camo Pen Blank

Desert Camo Pen Blank




Pink Ivory Pen BlankA fantastic turning wood, Pink Ivory takes a beautiful high polish and offers a
mostly uniform color throughout. These blanks measure roughly 6-1/8" long
by just over 3/4" square.

Pink Ivory Pen Blank

Pink Ivory Pen Blank

Christmas Ideas for a Pen Turner. 

Here are some great gift ideas for a new pen turner.

Pen Press/Drilling JigDrill and assemble your pens perfectly with flush fittings and a smoothly-operating mechanism! This dual-purpose jig takes care of both prep work and assembly. It holds your blank firmly in position for drilling, creating a precise, perfectly centered hole the entire length of the pen. Later, it smoothly presses your parts together without any bowing or misalignment. Notched jaws automatically center the blank for drilling, while two countersunk holes center the parts during assembly. Large clamping wheel provides slow, controlled pressure so you'll never crack a casing again.

Pen Press/Drilling Jig

Pen Press/Drilling Jig

Sale $79.99 Each
(Regular Price: $97.49)




Starter Pen Turning KitThis kit contains all the essential tooling you need to start turning custom pens. Includes 3 pen blanks (Bloodwood, Bubinga and Olivewood), 3 gold-plated hardware kits with twist mechanisms, 7mm mandrel with knurled nut, #2 Morse Taper, (4) 7mm bushings, a 7mm Brad Point Drill Bit, a 2 oz. bottle of CA Glue, a Pen Mill for truing up all mating surfaces and a storage case with 28 adjustable compartments.

Starter Pen Turning Kit

Starter Pen Turning Kit

Sale $59.99 Each
(Regular Price: $65.99)




Pen Turner's Workbook: Step-by-step instructions for 9 projectsGetting started in turning pens has never been easier! With this
step-by-step guide, you will learn everything you need to know - from
choosing a
lathe to turning techniques and even marketing your work.

Features step-by-step instructions for a wooden slim line pen
and Corian® cigar pen.
Written by Barry Gross.
80 pages.
Softcover.

Pen Turner's Workbook: Step-by-step instructions for 9 projects

Pen Turner

Sale $10.95 Each
(Regular Price: $12.95)




Crystal CoatPerfect for turned pens! Get a sophisticated high-gloss finish that's also water-and wear-resistant. Quick, easy and no-mess! Perfect for turned pens! Can be applied to wood pens and other turnings right while they're on the lathe! Easy to use 6 ounce bottle. Designed as a final finish coat. Food safe when dry.

Crystal Coat

Crystal Coat

Sale $8.99 Each
(Regular Price: $10.99)




Inlace Acrylester #43 Froggy Burgundy Pen BlankInlace Acrylester is a semi-translucent plastic that exhibits a remarkable irridescent shimmer. It is available in a huge variety of colors, each with a unique pearlescent pattern and amazing visual depth. Acrylester turns much like acrylic and can be polished to a gleaming finish. Each blank measures approximately 5" long x 3/4" square.

Inlace Acrylester #43 Froggy Burgundy Pen Blank

Inlace Acrylester #43 Froggy Burgundy Pen Blank

Sale $1.99 Each
(Regular Price: $3.99)


New PenTurning Proudcts 

August 2008

Choke Cherry Burl Pen BlankCreate a handsome, natural pen with beautiful figured burl. These blanks are
stabilized with resin to ensure smooth turning and can be polished to a
gleaming finish. Each blank is sold individually.

Choke Cherry Burl Pen Blank

Choke Cherry Burl Pen Blank




Violet Box Elder Burl Pen BlankCreate a handsome, natural pen with beautiful figured burl. These blanks are
stabilized with resin to ensure smooth turning and can be polished to a
gleaming finish. Each blank is sold individually.

Violet Box Elder Burl Pen Blank

Violet Box Elder Burl Pen Blank




Red Box Elder Burl Pen BlankCreate a handsome, natural pen with beautiful figured burl. These blanks are
stabilized with resin to ensure smooth turning and can be polished to a
gleaming finish. Each blank is sold individually.

Red Box Elder Burl Pen Blank

Red Box Elder Burl Pen Blank




Yellowheart/Padauk Laminated Hardwood Pen BlankA blend of contrasting hardwoods with striking geometric patterns. This blank
is made up of alternating Yellowheart and Padauk strips. Each blank measures
approximately 5-3/4"L x 11/16" square.

Yellowheart/Padauk Laminated Hardwood Pen Blank

Yellowheart/Padauk Laminated Hardwood Pen Blank




Inlace Acrylester #40 Crimson & Silver Pen BlankInlace Acrylester is a semi-translucent plastic that exhibits a remarkable
irridescent shimmer. It is available in a huge variety of colors, each with a
unique pearlescent pattern and amazing visual depth. Acrylester turns much
like acrylic and can be polished to a gleaming finish. Each blank measures
approximately 5" long x 3/4" square.

Inlace Acrylester #40 Crimson & Silver Pen Blank

Inlace Acrylester #40 Crimson & Silver Pen Blank




Inlace Banana Grape Pen BlankInlace Acrylester is a semi-translucent plastic that exhibits a remarkable
irridescent shimmer. It is available in a wide variety of colors, each with a
unique pearlescent pattern and amazing visual depth. Acrylester turns
much like acrylic and can be polished to a gleaming finish. Each blank
measures approximately 5" long x 3/4" square.

Inlace Banana Grape Pen Blank

Inlace Banana Grape Pen Blank

New Pen Turning Products 

June 2008

Single Plastic Pen BoxGreat for display or transportation, this sleek case features a rubber retainer
clip and a felt-like base to keep pens safe, secure and blemish-free. Holds
pens up to 1/4" wide and 6" long. Made from durable lightweight plastic.

Single Plastic Pen Box

Single Plastic Pen Box




Jumbo Plastic Pen BoxFeatures a clear lid for attractive display. Holds large or small pens. Great for
high-volume individual storage or as an affordable option for gift
presentation.

Jumbo Plastic Pen Box

Jumbo Plastic Pen Box




Bubinga and Maple Pen Desk SetsThese hardwood boxes are beautiful presentation options for pen/letter
opener sets. They are designed to house Americana and European style sets,
but will also accommodate pens up to 5/8" in diameter. Available in maple
and bubinga.

Bubinga and Maple Pen Desk Sets

 Bubinga and Maple Pen Desk Sets




Woodworker's Guide to Sharpening, BookThere is no joy in dullness! Hone your sharpening skills with this book by professional woodworker John English. Follow him as he covers the gamut of sharpening methods and styles, staying true to his philosophy that the "right" way to sharpen is simply the way that works best for you. You'll learn all you need to know about nearly every sharpening method (for a complete list, click More Info), and also enjoy a rare look at the sharpening setups of some of America's best professional woodworkers such as Norm Abram, Sam Maloof, David J. Marks, Cindy Drozda, and more. 155 pages.

Woodworker's Guide to Sharpening, Book

Woodworker's Guide to Sharpening, Book




Exotic Turning Blanks - Special 48 Piece Assortment BoxA turner's delight, this box of blanks includes four hand-selected 1" x 1" x 12" pieces from each of the following species: Bocote, Chechen, Cocobolo, Ebony, Katalox, Argentine Lignum Vitae, Mopani, Olivewood, Pink Ivory, Redheart, Honduran Rosewood, and Tamboti. All told, that's 48 gorgeous blanks at a value price compared to the cost of the same collection purchased individually.

Exotic Turning Blanks - Special 48 Piece Assortment Box

Exotic Turning Blanks - Special 48 Piece Assortment Box




Exotic Turning Blanks - Special 20 Piece Assortment BoxA turner's delight, this box of blanks includes two hand-selected 1-1/2" x 1-1/2" x 12" pieces from each of the following species: African Blackwood, Aripin (Chakte Viga), Cocobolo, Ebony, Argentine Lignum Vitae, Olivewood, Pink Ivory, Redheart, East Indian Rosewood, and Tamboti. All told, that's 20 gorgeous blanks at a price nearly 40% off the cost of the same collection purchased individually.

Exotic Turning Blanks - Special 20 Piece Assortment Box

Exotic Turning Blanks - Special 20 Piece Assortment Box

New Pen Turning Products 

May 2008

Acrylic 10 Pen Display CaseShowcase 10 pens of almost any size in this sleek, space-saving rack. The clear acrylic is durable, attractive, and puts the focus where it should be-on the pens. Great for desks or countertops with limited space. Dimensions: 10" high by 4-1/2" wide by 6" deep.

Acrylic 10 Pen Display Case

Acrylic 10 Pen Display Case




48 Pen Storage CaseThis convenient, attractive solution for pen-storage and transportation features an imitation leather exterior and felt-like interior with space for 48 standard size pens or pencils. Fitted grooves and a retention band ensure a secure hold for your pens, while easy-operation catches and a comfortable handle offer convenient usability.

48 Pen Storage Case

48 Pen Storage Case




30 Pen Storage CaseThis convenient, attractive solution for pen-storage and transportation features an imitation leather exterior and felt-like interior with room for 30 large pens like the Rollerball, Americana and European pens. Fitted grooves and a retention band ensure a secure hold for your pens, while easy-operation catches and a comfortable handle offer convenient usability.

30 Pen Storage Case

30 Pen Storage Case




Black Pen RollThis heavy velvet roll is a fine way to store or transport a variety of different sized pens. With space to securely hold 18 pens, and an elegant cloth ribbon to tie around the roll, you'll get good looks and high functionality.

Black Pen Roll

Black Pen Roll




Adjustable MandrelObtain the perfect mandrel length for any pen kit. Just loosen the locking collar and adjust the mandrel as needed-no more hassling with spacers. Turn two barrels at once, or single barrels up to 6" long. Consult your lathe's instruction manual to determine the appropriate MT size. For 7mm pen bushings only.

Adjustable Mandrel

Adjustable Mandrel




Pyramid Pen BoxThis solid maple and walnut box is a beautiful option for both storage and display. Designed with virtually no visible hardware, it has the natural look that a hand-turned pen all but requires. Its pyramid shape makes it the perfect ornament for any desk. Fits pens up to 5-7/8" long and 9/16"wide.

Pyramid Pen Box

Pyramid Pen Box




Wooden Double Pen BoxesSolid hardwood display holds two standard size pens. Available in walnut, maple and bubinga.

Wooden Double Pen Boxes

Wooden Double Pen Boxes




Pen Lift BoxesThese beautiful solid wood boxes raise the pen as they open, adding a touch of flair to an already teriffic pen presentation. Appropriate for most standard size pens. Available in maple, walnut, and bubinga.

Pen Lift Boxes

Pen Lift Boxes




Pen Cap Adjuster ToolUsed with Fountain and Rollerball pens, this is an essential tool for creating a perfect fit between the pen's cap assembly and the barrel. Turn a handle and attach the threaded adjuster for a handy custom tool.

Pen Cap Adjuster Tool

Pen Cap Adjuster Tool




Pen Disassembly ToolDid your pen not turn out as planned? Relax, all is not lost. This affordable tool quickly takes the pen apart so you can make repairs, reassemble it correctly, or salvage your hardware for another day. Works with any twist operation pen with 7mm tubes, such as Slimline or European-style pens.

Pen Disassembly Tool

Pen Disassembly Tool




Magnetic Pickup Pen KitIt's shaped like a pen and can fit in your pocket, but instead of a writing tip, the pickup pen features a powerful rare earth magnet that can lift up to 8 lbs. With its 21" extendable shaft, you can easily sift through saw dust or reach under the workbench to find any metal object that has gone missing.

Magnetic Pickup Pen Kit

Magnetic Pickup Pen Kit

Projects Along the Woodturning Trail DVD 

Projects Along the Woodturning Trail DVDThe sequel to Alan Lacer's "Woodturning: Getting Started Right," this 2-disc DVD package includes over 4 hours of skill building exercises and projects for the beginning to intermediate woodturner. With Alan's expert guidance, you'll review sharpening techniques, practice exercises to develop tool control and good form, and explore a wide variety of projects, including: a screwdriver, a toothpick holder, a green wood bowl, a bowl from kiln-dried lumber, a weed/twig pot, a pepper mill, and more.

Projects Along the Woodturning Trail DVD

Projects Along the Woodturning Trail DVD

Pen Turning Items on Sale for a Limited Time 

Bubinga Curly Waterfall Lumber - Once in a Lifetime!
NEW! INDIVIDUAL GIANT BOARDS - JUST ARRIVED!
Some sections of this tree were simply too beautiful to divide and sell by the
board foot! Click here to browse the individual
large-scale
boards now available for sale!

PLEASE NOTE: Only the giant boards are available at this time.
Smaller, custom-sized pieces are currently sold out.
Be a part of something special with this once-in-a-lifetime hardwood
specimen. The exotic Bubinga in this offer comes from a single tree. What
makes this lumber truly one-of-a-kind, though, is the
uniquely stunning "waterfall" grain on display in every piece. In addition to
being incredibly rare, the gorgeous grain adds an element of depth and
movement that will bring your project to life. For specialty furniture, it
doesn't get much
better than this wood. Great for executive desks, elegant bar-tops, counters,
tables, or anything you want to enrich with a timeless "wow-factor."
Quantities are very limited, so act quickly to get your piece of this amazing
find. Slabs are available in various thicknesses from 1" to 1-1/2". Widths
available from 6'' to 14'' and lengths available up to 60''. This is rough cut
lumber and not surfaced. Some pieces contain a live edge. Sold by the board
foot. Prices will be rounded up to the nearest tenth of a board foot.
Once-in-a-lifetime Bubinga! - As seen in the April, 2008 issue of
Woodworker's Journal Magazine!

Bubinga Curly Waterfall Lumber - Once in a Lifetime!

Bubinga Curly Waterfall Lumber - Once in a Lifetime!




Pen Tube Insertion ToolEasily slide pen tubes into your pen blank without getting glue all over your
fingers. Tapered shaft gently wedges into your pen tubes for a secure grip,
allowing you to rotate the tubes for smooth insertion and optimum glue
coverage. Since it only contacts the rim, the shaft won't adhere to the glue.
Works with any pen tube from 7mm to 11mm.

Pen Tube Insertion Tool

Pen Tube Insertion Tool




Pen Display TrayHere's a great way to show off the gems from your pen turning collection. With capacity for up to 24 pens or pencils, you won't have to leave any of your favorites behind. Elastic band holds pens snugly so you can orient the tray any way you like. Textured vinyl exterior cleans up easily, while the soft lining keeps your polish looking sharp. Tray measures 7/8''H x 7-5/8''W x 13-7/8''L.

Pen Display Tray

Pen Display Tray

New Penturning Products 

Majestic Rhodium Black Titanium Fountain Pen KitWith luxury at every turn, the Majestic is the finest pen kit we have to offer. It is hefty without being unwieldy, boasts an elegant design, and features regal details like a stunning Swarovski clear crystal set in the clip, intricate three-dimensional engravings in the end cap and accent rings, and brilliant rhodium plating contrasting with black titanium bands. The iridium-tipped, German-made nib combines with a Schmidt® ink reservoir to round out an artistic and exquisite writing utensil. Use the bushings, drill bits, and mandrel listed below.

Majestic Rhodium Black Titanium Fountain Pen Kit

Majestic Rhodium Black Titanium Fountain Pen Kit




Panache Pen KitThis large pen has an even larger personality. It stands on end when you're not using it,virtually begging passers by to stop and admire your craftsmanship. It features a tapered barrel and cap, and comes equipped with a Schmidt® ceramic rollerball refill for smooth, consistent performance. Various plating options. Use the bushings, drill bits, and mandrel listed below.

Panache Pen Kit

Panache Pen Kit




Patriot Pen KitsA modern-style pen, the Patriot is at once beautiful to look at and comfortable to write with. It features a classic twist action cap at the top of the pen and a durable clip that is guaranteed not to break. Various plating options. Use the bushings, drill bit, and mandrel listed below. Finished size: 1/2" x 4-7/8".

Patriot Pen Kits

Patriot Pen Kits




Junior Gentlemen's Rollerball Pen KitsThis is a star in the world of smaller, premium pens. With improved features like the new effortless thread system, as well as beautiful chrome or gold accents to match gorgeous plating and a smooth writing Schmidt® cartridge, the Jr. Gentlemen's II really does set the standard for this type of pen. Available in black titanium and 10k gold. Black titanium plating features chrome accents. Gold plating features gold accents. Use the bushings, drill bits, and mandrel listed below.

Junior Gentlemen's Rollerball Pen Kits

Junior Gentlemen




Black Chrome Pen and Pencil KitsThe twist-action pen features sharp black hardware and a smooth
writing,
carbide-tipped Schmidt® refill, while the pencil has the same style
hardware
and uses a click-action lead dispensing system. Use the
bushings, drill bit, and mandrel listed below for both the pen and pencil.

Black Chrome Pen and Pencil Kits

Black Chrome Pen and Pencil Kits




Woodworker's Pencil KitSpecifically designed for the shop, the Woodworker's Pencil features hard, extra thick 5.6mm lead that will boldly mark a variety of materials. With spring action lead-release, you control exactly how much or little lead is exposed with the click of a button. For consistently sharp marks, the button on top of the pencil unscrews to reveal a handy sharpener. Use the bushings, drill bit, and mandrel listed below.

Woodworker's Pencil Kit

Woodworker's Pencil Kit




Americana Filigree Ballpoint Pen KitThe ornamental 24k filigree provides a beautiful window to the underlying wood, making this classic pen a fine writing choice for anything from wedding guestbooks to corporate contracts. Twist operation, with a smooth-writing, carbide-tipped Schmidt® refill. Use the bushings, drill bit, and mandrel listed below.

Americana Filigree Ballpoint Pen Kit

Americana Filigree Ballpoint Pen Kit




European Filigree Ballpoint Pen KitThe ornamental 24k filigree provides a beautiful window to the wood it wraps around, making this classic pen a fine writing choice for anything from wedding guestbooks to corporate contracts. Twist operation, with a smooth-writing, carbide-tipped Schmidt® refill. Use the bushings, drill bit, and mandrel listed below.

European Filigree Ballpoint Pen Kit

European Filigree Ballpoint Pen Kit




2007 Rollerball Pen KitThis is a premier kit with gorgeous, high-quality hardware. The finely detailed cap screws on and off with ease, while a smooth writing, carbide-tipped Schmidt® refill rounds out a fantastic pen. Available in copper or rhodium plating. Use the bushings, drill bit, and mandrel listed below.

2007 Rollerball Pen Kit

2007 Rollerball Pen Kit

Wood Turning Safety 

Wood Turning Safety and Safety Equipment
When wood turning on a lathe, as with other woodworking tools, safety should be the woodworker's first concern. Learn the special precautions one should keep in mind when wood turning, to make wood turning fun and safe.
Lathe Safety
Mini Lathe Safety
The AAW Lathe Safety Guidelines - The American Association of Woodturners
The AAW Lathe Safety Guidelines

Safe, effective use of a wood lathe requires study and knowledge of procedures for using this tool. Read and thoroughly understand the label warnings on the lathe and in the owner's/operator's manual.

Turning a Fountain pen 

Turning a Fountain pen

Turning a Fountain pen

Video guide on how to turn a Fountain pen

Runtime: 6:13
13697 views
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Polyester Casting Part 1 

Polyester Casting Part 1

Polyester Casting Part 1

In this video, I will begin the process of showing how to cast pen blanks using polyester resin. I will make a blank that has a solid color with a black pearl color tint.

Runtime: 6:57
12251 views
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Pen Turning is Easy 

Pen Turning is Easy

Pen Turning is Easy

Brad teaches Linda how to turn a pen.

Runtime: 9:58
41204 views
10 Comments:

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Basic Woodturning Tools Video 

Basic Wood Pen Turning - Lathe Tools

The basic tools you need to start turning wooden pens on a lathe.

Runtime: 4:37
18732 views
5 Comments:

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Getting Started Pen Turning -- Penn State Industries 

Getting Started Pen Turning with Penn State Industries

Hear from current Pen Turners on why they love the hobby and see the pens they made. View a brief pen making tutorial and find out how Penn State Industries can get you started making wood pens.

Runtime: 5:14
26563 views
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Pen Turning Video 1 

March 11, 2008

Woodworking Online has an excellent video on turning a pen from start to finish. The entire video can be downloaded below:

Pen Turning Video

Getting Started 

What is needed to start Pen Turning



1) Lathe

2) Chisels

3) Face Protection

4) Drill Press

5) Vise

6) Pen Press

7) Mandrel

8) Pen Kit

10) Pen Blank

11) Sand Paper

12) Finish

Acrylic Pen Blanks 

Non-wood Blanks

Ready-To-Turn 7mm Pen BlanksNow you can turn, turn, turn - no more drilling and gluing!

Blanks are pre-cut, pre-drilled and pre-inserted with brass sleeve. That means the cutting, drilling and gluing stages are eliminated, letting you concentrate on what you enjoy most - turning great-looking pens!

Ready-To-Turn 7mm Pen Blanks

Ready-To-Turn 7mm Pen Blanks




Acrylic Pen BlanksYour pens and pencils will have a distinctive, unique look with swirl-patterned acrylic acetate pen blanks. These blanks provide excellent density and improved working properties. Available in five patterns.

Acrylic Pen Blanks

Acrylic Pen Blanks




Patriotic Swirl Pen BlankThese pearlescent blanks look incredible when finished and have amazing depth when viewed in the light!

Patriotic Swirl Pen Blank

Patriotic Swirl Pen Blank




Molten Metal Pen BlankThese pearlescent blanks look incredible when finished and have amazing depth when viewed in the light!

Molten Metal Pen Blank

Molten Metal Pen Blank

Wood Pen Blanks 

Wood Pen Blanks

Diagonal Wood Pen BlanksGive a unique appearance to your project with a diagonal pen blank! Turn your own pen and pencil bodies with these compressed exotic birch veneer pen blanks, which are diagonally cut to accent the pattern of each contrasting color. Choose from five distinctive, eye-catching designs.

Diagonal Wood Pen Blanks

Diagonal Wood Pen Blanks


Northern Maple Spalted Pen BlankThese blanks are stabilized with resin to ensure smooth turning and can be polished to a gleaming finish. Each blank measures approximately 3/4" x 3/4" x 5-1/2" long.

Northern Maple Spalted Pen Blank

Northern Maple Spalted Pen Blank


Angle Cut Maple, Black Walnut and Purpleheart Laminated Pen BlankThis blank is angle cut after being professionally laminated to provide a striking pattern!
This Laminated Pen Blank is made of Maple, Black Walnut and Purpleheart in a beautiful layered pattern and measures approximately 5" long x 3/4" square.

Angle Cut Maple, Black Walnut and Purpleheart Laminated Pen Blank

Angle Cut Maple, Black Walnut and Purpleheart Laminated Pen Blank


Natural Buckeye Burl Pen BlankCreate a handsome, natural pen with beautiful figured burl. These blanks are stabilized with resin to ensure smooth turning and can be polished to a gleaming finish. Each blank is sold individually.

Natural Buckeye Burl Pen Blank

Natural Buckeye Burl Pen Blank

Pen Turning Books I Recommend 

Books I have read that I suggest.

Pen Turners.org Photo Gallery 

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The 25 latest Photos Posted on PenTurners.org. Please check back for frequent updates. This page is updated every 30 minutes.

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Reader Feedback 

Lensmaster

The lens is great and the video of pen turning is so nice and the designs are great.
http://hardwoodflooringaid.com

ReplyPosted September 08, 2008

BDKS wrote...

Thanks for the comments. I have spent some time in the workshop. I will need to post some of my recent work.

ReplyPosted July 03, 2008

Lensmaster

squidr

I agree, this is a great lens, congratulations! There is a similar site called http://www.penturning.info and it is nice too. I love fancy pens!

ReplyPosted July 03, 2008

dogschooltraining wrote...

Wow, this is an awesome lens about pens. I have a pens site too - Mont Blanc Fountain Pens

ReplyPosted April 04, 2008