Thread: Bugger, this could become addictive!

Great start to pen turning, Agree with John, use callipers instead of relying on the bushes. You have done well, the slimline pen is not the easiest to work but very rewarding when completed. You have done a good job.

What mean you by "could"??? you "ARE", good work now let's see some more Amos

Cheers for the encouragement everyone.
I went back to carba-tec and got a few more pen kits and a drill press so I can drill the blanks properly. I had a old 1/4Hp bench drill that couldn't even cut all the way through the blank so i now have a shinny new 2Hp pedestal drill press that has 120mm of travel. should do the job. just need to get a better chuck and a good vice for it. I did get a vice while i was there but it doesn't line up with the T-slots and the handles bottom out on the bed. so i think i need a straight handled vice with wides mounts that line up with the T-slots.

Ive eye balled a few nice bits of timber for my next pens, I will get back in the shed and mess it up with wood shavings again very soon!
Cheers, Ash.

nice pens & you will get addicted
And welcome to another south aussie
regards Michael

so I can drill the blanks properly.

Drilling on the lathe using a scroll chuck and pin jaws is also good - especially for those 'not square' pieces - the drill bit from your drill press in the tail stock end - as it finds centre easily.

Most importantly - have fun with the process, you'll find everybody loves pens and they make great gifts.

JD

Well done Ash. As was mentioned earlier, calipers will help with the width. Check your local Aldi store as you can get a digital set from them for around $9. I use them and they are accurate enough for timber. Keep at it
Greg