Turning end grain blanks

[JohnDrayton]

Since I'm new to the pen turning world,, although am completly hooked,, I have a piece of blue spruce cut across the end grain, has the most beautiful grain, I would like to try a pen turned across the end grain, is there something I should know?? or will it turn OK? I have worked it to a semi round on the disk sander approx 3/4" and the grain only gets better, purple and white!!!
J.D. Drayton

 

[pastorbill1952]

You don't say whether it is stabilized or not. Use thin CA to smake it stable & then sharp tools & light cuts. If you turn past the CA then stop and add more.

 

[gerryr]

I tried this with Juniper and it was really difficult. The wood will be soft so take it VERY slow.

 

[Rifleman1776]

Straight 90 degree cross-cut will be very difficult. Bias cut works much better and usually gives a more interesting appearance. Stabilizing or generous use of ca. Much easier way is to find another piece of wood. []

 

[ctEaglesc]

Thios may be something to consider.
If the Sap in the spruce is acid, CA will not "Set"
Sweep the floor first, it's easier to find the pieces.[]
Sharp tools.

 

[woodscavenger]

Sweep the floor first??[:0] Good one Eagle! ROTF

 

[JohnDrayton]

I took everyones' advice. The wood is juniper not spruce as I told everyone. I "turned" the end grain using a rasp and sandpaper, tried to cut it but I think my tools were not sharp enough. anyway this turned out to be the most beautiful pen I have made!! I gave it to my wifeie, really made points!!! Thanks for the help, without it I would have ruined the blank!

J.D. Drayton

J.D. Drayton

 

[Rifleman1776]

Originally posted by JohnDrayton
<br />I took everyones' advice. The wood is juniper not spruce as I told everyone. I "turned" the end grain using a rasp and sandpaper, tried to cut it but I think my tools were not sharp enough. anyway this turned out to be the most beautiful pen I have made!! I gave it to my wifeie, really made points!!! Thanks for the help, without it I would have ruined the blank!

J.D. Drayton

J.D. Drayton

Congratulations on your determination and success. Howzabout a picture?

 

[chigdon]

Definately bring on the picture.

I forget who's post I read with the idea but I have had good success with cross cut wood using a 1/16" parting tool. It is slow going but it works very well.

Eagle, very good suggestion with cleaning the floor first!

 

[MDWine]

Originally posted by cteaglesc
<br />...Sweep the floor first, it's easier to find the pieces..

I don't care who ya are, that's funny right thar!

This pen sounds great, sure would like to see a pic!! or two??