Tetra Blue Swirl

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qquake

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This is a new to me kit called the Tetra, from Berea. It has a mesh stylus on the finial, and the finish is gunmetal and gold. The blank is an acrylic acetate called blue swirl. Very pretty blank. I made this for a friend who prefers "skinny" pens. But I really don't like slimline pens, so I chose this instead. I think she'll be pleased with it.
 

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qquake

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I was a little confused by the assembly instruction as regards the stylus. The instructions state, "6. Drill a 5/16" hole is a piece of wood to use as a press block. 7. Slide the stylus assembly into the small end of the finial. Place the finial over the hole you just drilled and press the stylus assembly into place. DO NOT press against the stylus tip. You will ruin it. Press this in until it protrudes out of the finial a short distance. Be careful here and check the pressing progress often to get the right length." I couldn't figure out what they meant until I realized the stylus needs to be pressed into the finial from behind. It was easy peasy once I realized how to do it.
 

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qquake

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It wasn't until I had the pen assembled that I realized my mistake. I put the gold trim ring on the finial upside down. I tried to disassemble it with a transfer punch, but it didn't budge. I don't know of a way to take it apart without ruining the blank, which I won't do. It's not that bad, and unless you're looking for it, I don't think you'd notice it. Oh well, I am human, after all.
 

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qquake

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The blank is actually cut from a 5" x 5" x 3/4" block of acrylic acetate. It was on sale for $6, and I should be able to get at least four blanks from it. I cut a 3/4" piece with my bandsaw.
 

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OZturner

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Aug 5, 2013
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A Very Neat Pen, Jim.
I Feel for you, it is annoying when those simple little things go wrong, or the instructions are deficient, and the result is a Goof.
Thank you for your detailed explanation, and the supporting Photographs, It helps to be able to see the problems.
Excellent fit and Finish,
Congratulations,
Brian.
 

MTViper

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Jul 22, 2009
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Clyde, Texas
Great job on the Tetra. I used up all my Slimline pens years ago and replaced them with the Tetra. It's a very classy looking pen, uses a Parker refill, and feels good in your hand. I've made and sold or given away dozens of them. As for the gold ring ... tell her it's an art feature and double the estimated value of the pen.
 
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