Thread: Newbie to Pen Turning

This question has been asked "once or twice" before:

https://www.woodworkforums.com/f69/pe...t-they-149121/

Hi Arry. Well, the link below is pretty much where & how I learnt to turn pens. There are several GREAT forum sponsors who are pen gear retailers, as well as expert pen makers. Here is where to start, video lesson 1 of 9. Watch over & over so it all sinks in. Have fun. Pen blank preparation for the drill press. « TimberBits Blog

cheers, excuse if this is a stupid question but what is the point of buying blanks rather than just making them?

I guess it is having access to rare and wondeful timber species?

If I do make my own blanks say, as I have a fair amount of Sheok left over, what size should I make them?

ie is there a standard size for pen blanks?

thanks

The average size is about 25x25x120mm. It saves you heaps if you have some interesting timber to cut up for blanks. But, there is just sooo much fabulous timber from all around the world (Burls in particular) that you'll find yourself gravitating in time toward purchasing the rare & unique stuff for you special pens. Also too, you have a massive range of acrylic blanks etc to choose from.

If you are starting with slimlines or streamlines they have a 7mm drilled hole for the tubes to be glued into, 25x25 mm would be a max size for the largest pens ,even then they finish at about 19mm dia, you can cut about 3/4 square for the greatest majority of kits ,less waste that way The hardest thing is not turning pens , but avoiding the "addiction" hehe, good luck , cheers ~ John

Welcome Arry,

Right now all you Perth and thereabout members please be upstanding and share your sources and knowledge. Arry you are very vague indeed Perth covers a fair space but first hand visits to established Wood Groups and indeed our members the very best way to go.

Why do we buy timber? well we do it because it does not all grow on trees near us or next door but I can assure you already you have some of the finest.

When we buy matches there is a reason so obvious, when we buy a motor car or wood gear make your choices fit your budget and availability. Why did your wife choose you?

After a while the lesson to learn is availability and time but let me assure you you are not far frrom some of natures best timber in the world.

In saying hi I wish you happiness and choice success in your desires.

Kind regards Peter in Canberra.

Hi Arry.
Where abouts in Perth are you, I live in the Eastern suburbs send me a PM if you live close enough you can have a look at what I have for pen making.
There is also a couple of pen makers south of the river on this forum which I am sure will help you out.

Rippa

When you set up Arry and begin to get into it, just remember that you should ask as many questions as you want on this forum and the answers you get will solve your problems. Its a great place to learn and you are most welcome.

Thanks guys

I am in the northern subhurbs.

watch out mate BEWARE making pens is addictive
now you have been warned have fun
regards Michael

Not to mention, you meet some great people from all over the world. I think the best people are here.

John Canuk