DIY centerbands......opinions please

[woodscavenger]

I have been having fun with my new mini-HSS tools and my PSI chuck. I just finished these pens.[8D]

This one is bocote with an oak centerband with slimline kit. The finish is my first attempt at CA-BLO. I am not sure I like it but I will probably try again.

This is a Red palm body with DIY Paduk center band and finial from a slimline kit. I really liked doing the matching finial and it took suprisingly little time.

 

[KKingery]

Both look real good! The color combos work well with each other.

 

[Tom McMillan]

Looking good Shane!!!! What problems are you having with the finish?? I don't use BLO anymore myself---but, I do like the CA finish I've been getting.

 

[Fred in NC]

The pens and bands look good! I much prefer the fit in the Padauk band.

 

[woodscavenger]

I also prefer the paduk CB.

As for he finish, it seems a little rough. I only have 800 grit sp so that may be it. I used thick CA ( the only kind I had). It was a spur of the moment decision so I will definitely try it again. Personally I miss the feel of the wood.

 

[jkirkb94]

Doing a great job, Shane. I still haven't tried a DIY centerband but seeing ones like yours pushes me closer to trying! Kirk[8D]

 

[dougle40]

Good stuff Shane . I just recently started to make my own CB's and haven't made a pen with a stock CB since . Check out my latest , an Antique Pine w/Paduk CB.

 

[jwoodwright]

Great Job. Those centerbands are great...[]

 

[PenWorks]

Nice pens Shane, really like the Red Palm and the center band is a good contrast in color. Good job. Anthony

 

[Gary]

I really like the Red Palm you show. I need to try and turn it.

 

[bajacrazy]

Originally posted by jwoodwright
<br />Great Job. Those centerbands are great...[]

I agree nice work on CB, Pens look great.[8D]

 

[woodscavenger]

Thanks for the comments. The mini turning tools from PSI really make a difference for me. I have kept my 1/2" cutoffs and I drilled a bunch of them with 1/4" bit, slid a bunch on my mandrel and played around. I now have a little bag full of centerbands of different sizes, shape, and colors. I choose a CB, mount it between my two blanks without the center spacers and make woodchips.