FP from the Pen Turner's Bible

[Stevej72]

I've been wanting to make this piece of Cumberland Ebonite into a kitless pen for a long time, but of course procrastinated because I didn't want to ruin it. When I got my Penturner's Bible and saw the pen in Chapter 32 I knew that was the one. I made my own mandrels and my next day off I want to make my own FP section.

In person it looks like it is polished up nicely but in the pictures it looks like it needs a lot more. Also, not sure how to handle the threads to get them looking better. And, I should have cleaned my nib up a bit before pictures.

 

[D.Oliver]

I can't say I know anything about kitless, but that's a nice looking pen.

 

[Haynie]

Sweet.

 

[BigShed]

Lovely work.

I do however miss a clip, somehow a fountain doesn't look complete without a clip.

 

[Dalecamino]

That material is just plain pretty. Nice job turning. I like the shape, but I'm with Fred on the clip, although it looks fine without one.

 

[Glenn McCullough]

Very nicely done! how does the cumberland thread?

 

[Jim Burr]

I love that book!

 

[brownsfn2]

These kitless pens look so awesome. I am inspired to try this. I just need to get the tools. Really, really, awesome look! Well done!

 

[Stevej72]

Thank you everyone, for the nice comments. The Cumberland does thread very nicely. I don't have a lot of experience threading yet, but so far that is the best stuff I have threaded.

 

[dgscott]

A very good job, indeed.
Doug

 

[watch_art]

beautiful!

 

[stevo81]

thats a beautiful pen

 

[joefyffe]

Steve: I think your self criticism on your photos is mainly a matter of a few dust spots. Those can be cleaned up, quite easily, with photoshop clone tool.
Beautiful Pen!!! I love turning ebonite!

 

[wizard]

Steve, That is an absolutely stunning pen in my favorite color of ebonite..your finish looks like glass. May I ask the steps you used for polishing and buffing ? I am sure your section will be as outstanding as the pen. Please post the pen with the completed section. Thanks for sharing. Doc

 

[Stevej72]

Thanks Doc! This is my favorite Cumberland as well. I am still trying to "perfect" my process of finishing ebonite. Most recently after I've finished turning the piece I start with 600 grit sandpaper, then go to 1000 and 1500. After that I used Micromesh wet. and then went to the Beall buffing system.

I had a piece of the Cumberland that was big enough for the section but now I can't find it. I'll have to tear up the shop tomorrow until it turns up. If I can't find that I do have some black ebonite I will use.