Setting up a kid to turn pens on a budget

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jbo_c

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My son(13) thinks he would like to turn pens and other smalls.

I would like to set him up for Christmas. Need the budget to fall under $300 all up(preferably less). That seems to be a challenge at best, since we have none of the tools.

There's tons of info out there. So much that it's a little frustrating trying to find what I need.

Would like to set him up to be able to turn things like pens, s/p shakers, fishing lures, things in those size ranges.

My main concern beyond the cost, is set-up. If I'm going to give it to him for Christmas, he's going to want to turn his first pen before he goes to sleep that night. I can't afford not to have all the pieces. So if I go the cheapo route with, say a HF lathe and tools, what extra chucks/mandrels, etc will he have to have. (I'm not above finding a lathe on craigslist, but I still have the same problem and the cost doesn't seem to be much less than the ones at HF, though I realize they might ultimately be higher quality)

I need a list of minimum what he'll need to open boxes and turn a pen on day one and can't seem to find it. Surely there's one out there. I've done lots of reading and not been able to feel like I can nail that down.

Thanks for any help.

Jbo

PS. Yes, I'll expect to be doing some turning myself as well.
 
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Smulax

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Here is a list of what you should start with in my opinion
Safety glasses/ face shield
Lathe
Chisels
Sandpaper (100-400 grit)
Friction polish or wax as a finish
Mandrel
Bushings
Slimline kit
Blanks
7mm drill bit
Ca glue
Sander or end mill
I'm sure I forgot something that more experienced turners will add
Good luck. P.S. YouTube might have a video on the topic.


If you pm me your address I can send you some kits with blanks that already have the tubes in them.
 

jbo_c

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There is a Grizzly Mini Lathe for sale semi-locally with tools for $150, which seems to be pretty reasonable from what else I've looked at. Compared to a similar price for the HF lathe and tools with a 20% coupon, the Grizzly may be a much better deal.

I just don't know anything about this stuff. I'm a tinker with the car guy, not a woodworker.

Jbo
 

jbo_c

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Thanks for the offer on the blanks, Smulax. If I figure out for certain I can afford to do this for him, I may take you up on that.

Jbo
 

cwolfs69

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im sure that a HF lathe would be fine for a start and then your sure of what you are getting. there small one, part #95607, will be fine Harbor Freight Lathe Page. since Smulax would send you some blanks and kits, i have a mandrel which will fit that lathe, some bushings for slims, a nut and a few blanks for drilling and turning later should you want them. in addition i have some pressure wax i would be glad to include as well. i may eve have an extra pen mill i could spare as well. just drop me a PM and we can discuss what you need. i have some sanding material i can help with as well.

Anything to help get young folks started in the hobby.
 

cwolfs69

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There is a Grizzly Mini Lathe for sale semi-locally with tools for $150, which seems to be pretty reasonable from what else I've looked at. Compared to a similar price for the HF lathe and tools with a 20% coupon, the Grizzly may be a much better deal.

I just don't know anything about this stuff. I'm a tinker with the car guy, not a woodworker.

Jbo


the HF lathe is $129 and you can getg a 25% coupon on line almost any time. the 20% is always on line.
 

edicehouse

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Where are you located? That would make it so maybe some of the people local to you could give you some pointers. I would be leary of craigslist since you are not too framiliar with the tools and stuff. Maybe someone local to you would be willing to help you look.
 

jbo_c

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I'm in Atlanta. I sure appreciate all the offers for help. Sounds like I might be able to pull this off.

With the HF lathe, isn't there something I will need to change out from stock as far as the head and tailstocks go? Need to make sure I pick up those pieces too if I'll need them.

I need to get a book and do some more searching so I'll be a little ahead of him at Christmas and can be at least some help to get him started.

Jbo
 

jbo_c

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Oh. I'm in Gainesville, GA. - about 40 miles north of Atlanta.

Looking at the HF page, it says that lathe comes with #1MT stocks. Seems like I've read #2 is really the standard. That's what I was thinking I would need to change out. Yes? No?

Thanks again for all the help.
 

Justturnin

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I hear the HF lathe is a good one but there are still some other things you need. If looking for a one stop deal the PSI starter kit looks good and I hear good things about the lathes there too. About $50 over budget but really simplifies it. At the very least it gives a short shopping list.

Basic Pen Making Starter Set with Turncrafter Commander 10 in. Multi Speed Midi Lathe at Penn State Industries

If you want to go that route create a log-in and sign up for their emails. I think they have a 10% off right now. Usually saves you shipping fees at least.
 
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Dan Masshardt

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Couple things to mention

You need a way to drill blanks. Do you own a drill press?

If you use traditional high speed steel tools, you need a way to sharpen them. This is not optional and he will be frustrated and get nowhere with dull tools.

As an alternate, you could buy a carbide insert tool to start. These are very popular with many pen turners.

I feel like I need to share an opinion though, you are free to disagree. This is an expensive hobby. Even if you can get him started for $300, are you prepared to spend another $200 or easily more on January to keep him going when it's not Christmas anymore?
 

Alchymist

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Oh. I'm in Gainesville, GA. - about 40 miles north of Atlanta.

Looking at the HF page, it says that lathe comes with #1MT stocks. Seems like I've read #2 is really the standard. That's what I was thinking I would need to change out. Yes? No?

Thanks again for all the help.

No. You can't change it. It is what it is. The #1 taper is a standard taper, just not as common as #2. Only thing about it is that you have to buy all the taper accessories in a #1, and if you later move to a bigger lathe, it will almost certainly be a #2. There are adapters to go from a #2 to a #1, but not an ideal situation. If I were buying any type of wood lathe, minimum would be a #2. However if it's a one and done type of thing, it is a little cheaper.
 

jbo_c

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Good to know, Dan. I think SMulax is going to hook me up on that, but I'll know if that doesn't work out.

But your comment does bring up: I don't have a drill press(yet). So, A) are there enough options in pre-drilled blanks to keep him busy and/or B) What will we need to use the lathe to drill blanks? I've read that's an option, in fact, some seem to think that's the best way.
 

randyrls

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Yes; A visit to the local Woodcraft store is always in order. Also check out the American Association of Woodturners for a local chapter. They often have members that are will to mentor and you may just be able to take a pen and blank and get a feel for what is involved.
 

Dan Masshardt

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Drilling on the lathe is a great option. You need an scroll chuck or dedicated pen blank chuck and a Jacobs drill chuck that fits your tailstock.

Another $100 or more depending on what you go with.

Again, my comment about $$.

Here's an idea. Why don't you take up turning as well? It can be something that the two of you share together.

And you can make shift knobs for your cars. ;-)
 

jbo_c

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Good points about the $$ Dan. If his interest takes off, we'll spend the money. I'm definitely interested in checking out my interest level too. Neither of us does much without the other at this stage. We'll see.

Realistically, I think we'll turn a few pens right away, maybe a pepper mill(that one's me) and probably play with doing some stickbait style fishing lures. Then interest will fade a little for both of us. His sprint kayak team will start hitting the lake again and the turning will mostly be a winter pursuit for Christmas and birthday presents mostly.

That's part of why I'm trying to manage the initial outlay as much as possible. Like I said, we'll see.

I do appreciate all the help.

Jbo
 

jbo_c

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I like the idea of a one-stop-shop. Might be worth the extra $50 since I have no idea what I'm doing. Wondering if it wouldn't come out about the same as buying separate parts anyway.

Would this one be OK for turning the slightly larger projects I mentioned, like a pepper mill?

Does it really have EVERYTHING to make the first ten pens?

Finally, I read several pretty unflattering reviews of PennState's customer service last night. Has anybody dealt with them recently?

Thanks.

Jbo
 

ed4copies

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I have a free tutorial on making peppermills and there are numerous YouTube vids on turning pens. A FREE way to learn the basics. As you watch, make note of the tools you think you will need.

For peppermills, pay close attention to the "through hole" size-----they are usually 1 & 1/16 inch--not a drillbit found in most "sets".

Good luck, feel free to PM or email me for more info
turning@exoticblanks.com
Ed
 

pinelumber

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christmas gift

Well the HF lathe you really cannot beat for the price. They have 2 1 bench top 1/3 hp #95607 on sale for 129.99 and a full sized one #67699 with a 7" disc sander built into the headstock for 139.99 I have a 25% coupon wich would get you down to $112.22 or $97.49 PM me if you are interested in the coupon. They also have a good deal on stip sandpaper, lathe tools and small tubes of ca glue.

Dennis
Pinelumber:bananen_smilies104::RockOn:
 

Dan Masshardt

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I haven't done a pepper mill yet but it certainly looks more involved. You need a couple different Forstner bits right and possibly an extension. And a chuck. And a Jacobs chuck.
 

kovalcik

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I buy from PSI a lot without any issues. Though I have never needed to call their customer service and never bought a lathe from them.

The starter kit is pretty good with little fluff. The only thing I see missing from the starter kit is sandpaper, goggles, and paper towels. You will also need something to set the lathe on.

The only issue I see is I do not know how sharp those tools will be out of the box. If you order before time, maybe take them to someone and have them sharpened and get a quick tutorial on how to use them so you can show your son.
 
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Jim Burr

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I've done a few dozen mills....they do need some level of precision. Couple things I noticed missing from the "Needs" list was a Jacobs chuck or drill press and breathing protection...face mask is more than inappropriate for turning anything.
 

walshjp17

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As was noted previously, make sure you have the tools you buy sharpened by someone who knows how to sharpen lathe tools. Using the tools as they come out of the box will be very frustrating as they are no way near sharp enough to turn anything but the softest of woods -- and that wont be pleasant either:wink:.

Alternatively, as Dan noted, you could have your son start out with carbide insert tools (PSI sells a set and Easy Wood Tools has starter tools) which will work nicely out of the box. They will work well with pens, bottle stoppers and pepper mils, but to get the full experience of turning, he should learn to use the traditional lathe tools and learn how to sharpen them.

Visiting a local pen turning or wood turning club is an excellent idea. Most clubs welcome young turners and there are folks with decades of experience who are more than willing to share their secrets. He will find many mentors at the IAP and/or AAW affiliated clubs.

As Ed Brown noted, use YouTube to find videos on pen turning. In fact, Ed has a great series for beginning pen turners avialable on both his web site (Exotic Blanks :: How To Videos) and in the library here on the IAP Forum (look in the Offsite Tutorials tab). Chad Schimmel (Chad Schimmel - YouTube) also has a nice series for beginning pen turners.

Finally, most Woodcraft stores have inexpensive classes and pen turning is usually on the schedule fairly regularly. Might be a nice father/son outing to take a class together even if he is the only one who ends up doing the turning. You will end up knowing what it takes to make a pen and what he is going through when he steps up tot he lathe.
 

Olsarge

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I have been using Penn State for several years and the last few years the customer service has been great. I ordered on the 19th and 20th and both orders are out for delivery today the 22nd. I know some people seem to have a problem with Penn State, but from what I have seen and read, they bring it on themselves. JMO
 

jbo_c

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Well, I talked to my wife and the full kit from PennState isn't in the budget. Looks like I'll be getting the HF lathe and sweating over making sure I have everything he needs for that.

I'll be back.

Thanks for the help so far.

Jbo
 

kovalcik

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Okay, lets start with SMULax's list since that looked pretty good.

BARE BONES PEN TURNING:

Safety glasses/ face shield
IMO for turning pens on a mandrel safety glasses are sufficient.
2 pair $20 ACE hardware

Lathe $130 Harbor Freight

Chisels HSS set of 3, $30 PSI
http://www.pennstateind.com/store/LCPM3.html
( or Carbide pen genie $60 )
Carbide Magic Pen Genie at Penn State Industries
I usually recommend HSS chisels, but since you cannot sharpen, this may be the exception.

Sandpaper (100-400 grit) 5 rolls in a box. $23
Abrasive Rolls: 5 Rolls for Sanding at Penn State Industries
Barrel Trimmer
7mm Basic Barrel Trimmer: Steel Cutter at Penn State Industries
Friction polish or wax as a finish $25
Mandrel #1 MT $18
#1 Morse Taper Maxi-Mandrel at Penn State Industries
Bushings (Come with mandrel)
#1 MT 60 degree live center $20
Live Tailstock Center w/ 60 deg point - #1MT at Penn State Industries
Slimline kit 10 funline chrome $15.50
Funline Slimline Chrome Twist Pen Kit at Penn State Industries
Blanks predrilled, enough for 10 pens no tubes $12
EZ Mini Pen Blanks Hardwood Mix 20 Pack 9/16 in. x 9/16 in. x 2-1/32 in. at Penn State Industries
7mm drill bit (Predrilled blanks )

Ca glue ~$20 (Go to Woodcraft)

Total $314.00 ($344 if you go for the carbide tool)

Sign up for PSI email list and get a 10% off code.
Have I missed anything crucial?
 
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jbo_c

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Wow. Thanks for the list. I do have safety glasses, so that saves me $20. :)

And I'll get the 20% coupon at HF to save another $20.

Maybe that'll cover shipping.
 

Dan Masshardt

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Super glue you already have is fine for getting started. You can skip ca on a budget.

If your just messing around, you could probably use some carnauba car wax I something. Defiantly not ideal, but if the money's not there, you can still make a pen.

Also on a budget, no need for the sandpaper rolls. See what you already have. Go to the hardware store and buy single sheets or a multi pack for literally a couple bucks.
 

Brian G

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As a novice pen turner that started less than 6 months ago, I recommend a mandrel saver #1 MT Pen Mandrel Saver Package at Penn State Industries set, which lessens the need for a 60° live center until you decide you want one.

I understand the desire to immediately start making a pen, but if budget is of concern, maybe the first week or so should be focused on learning how to use the lathe and the chisels. You don't have to have pen kits right away. Let your son decide which pen style he'd like to try. Give him a gift card to one of the vendors, and then he can learn how to place an order on his own.

I think I would have benefitted from turning scrap blanks down to bushing size, and fussing with exactness and technique before jumping right into a pen. Scrap 3/4" blanks, drilled down the center with a 1/4" drill by hand-drill is good enough to start. Practice shapes, sizes, profiles, sanding, and finishing. Then do a pen.

p.s. You're a good dad for encouraging a hobby that might become a life-long passion. :cool:
 
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Cmiles1985

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PSI (via Amazon) has a nice starter set (#3) for $128. It basically has everything but safety glasses and a lathe with #2 MT headstock. For $28 more you can get the kit that includes the pen press (I wish I had bought this kit when I started out). Both kits include hardware and per drilled blanks for ten pens. I had no idea what I was doing when I dove in head first a couple of months ago, but I love turning now! I bought a lathe off of craigslist to start with $120 for the lathe and a scroll saw). Sounds like the larger HF lathe would be ideal if you can't stumble on a good CL/eBay deal. I happened to get lucky on the deal I found. The guy bought a PSI lathe in '91 and ended up never using it! Good luck to you and your son, and I hope everything works out!
 

stonepecker

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At the age of 13 you are making an investment that is more then common.

I would take him to several group meetings. See if there is a starting class or class instrustions in your area. Get him started this way BEFORE putting out the kind of cash you are talking about. Even a local turner that is willing to instruct him is better then spending on this hobby only to have him loose interest 6 month later.

JMHO

P.S....... And I also am willing to send you some blanks if your son takes to the hobby. Just send me a PM with your address.
 
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sschering

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For a first set of pen kits I really liked the single tube starter kit from PSI..

You get to try a few different styles that all used a 3/8 tube..
I had a lot of fun with it.
Single Tube Pen Bundle: 5 Pen Kits, FREE drill bit and FREE Bushings at Penn State Industries

From day 1 I did turn between centers.. I'd rather spend $$ on a live center and dead center than a mandrel set..

Only down side is tbc slimline bushings are hard to get these days but you can fake it with the slimline manderel bushings and a piece of 6mm brass tubing or rod.
the rest of the standard bushings are fairly easy to get..
 

JD Combs Sr

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...I understand the desire to immediately start making a pen, but if budget is of concern, maybe the first week or so should be focused on learning how to use the lathe and the chisels. You don't have to have pen kits right away. Let your son decide which pen style he'd like to try. Give him a gift card to one of the vendors, and then he can learn how to place an order on his own.

I think I would have benefitted from turning scrap blanks down to bushing size, and fussing with exactness and technique before jumping right into a pen. Scrap 3/4" blanks, drilled down the center with a 1/4" drill by hand-drill is good enough to start. Practice shapes, sizes, profiles, sanding, and finishing. Then do a pen.

p.s. You're a good dad for encouraging a hobby that might become a life-long passion. :cool:
Ditto what Brian said. And BTW you can get good results in pen turning with a single carbide tool such as the "Pen Genie" and you can use your lathe tail stock as a pen press, just fit a piece of hard wood or plastic into the head stock hole and another into the tail stock hole(or get these) and presto you have a pen press. With it you don't have to get sharping equipment.
 
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TDE

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You can also get sandpaper rolls at harbor freight. It only has four rolls the finest is 400 grit but it is only $10.00 Good luck. Ted
 

Woodkiller

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Woodcraft here is having a Black Friday sale & they have a package of 30 slim lines & 30 blanks for $60. I don't think you can beat that deal anywhere, and that should be a great start.
You can ask around at work or wherever and find a woodworker that may drill your blanks for you. You can go to Ace & get sandpaper for under $1 a sheet that will last a while. You can get a toggle clamp & a 2x4 & make a pen press for a few bucks. I got some toggle clamps at tractor supply for $5 each.
I use a harbor freight mini lathe & have for a while with no problems. It works and my full size craftsman is collecting dust. :( I really feel bad about it too.
While at harbor freight, get some of the plastic divided boxes they have to organize your bushings, tubes, etc. in. It helps a lot.
Get a bottle of CA glue & some one step polish, it is fairly simple to use and works well.
Spend hours on YouTube watching videos. After a while you will know just about enough to get started, this forum will fill in all the blanks.

Later on if you guys decide to stick with it, look into dust collection( shop vac or dust collector), sharpening system of some sort, bandsaw to cut your own blanks from found woods, disk sander(lots of uses), & a casting kit to make your own blanks. You can easily get carried away here, so be careful & have fun together.
 
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jbo_c

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More good info. Thanks.

So "Woodcraft" is a store name. I was thinking everybody was just talking about any store that sold woodworking supplies. Don't know where one is locally. I'll have to see how to find out if we have a good place. I'm sure in Atlanta somewhere, but I don't get down the much.

Jbo
 
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