Greetings from Ohio

[mike anderson]

I've been turning pens for a year now .. Seems like there's NO "only one way" to make them .. Just better way's !! .. What is the differance in the plastic on "see thru" plastic pen blanks .. Just turned a carbon fiber pen and a computer chip pen .. Both just chatter and chip on the lathe .. I'm using sharp tools .. ( I think)

 

[Ted iin Michigan]

Mike - Welcome to the forum (from a "displaced" buckeye. Grew up in Cleveland (west sider).

Re your Q - There are many different plastics and they all seem to behave differently. I've done both of what you mention and, yes, they can chip. Try "riding the bevel" and taking real light cuts if you're using a skew. I've had good luck on these with the new carbide tools.

Chattering is something I have difficulty with, also. But the surface irregularities can be eliminated during sanding/polishing. Just leave a little extra to compensate for this.

Good luck!

 

[Gregf]

I found watching Barry Gross' video on turning acrylic materials to be a big help. At least I knew what it was supposed to look like.
Sharp tools light cuts... he repeats this many times.

DVD Pen Kit - Turning Acrylic Materials: Arizona Silhouette

 

[Ligget]

Welcome aboard Mike!

 

[Longfellow]

Welcome

Welcome from Sunny St. Cloud, Fla. Home of beautiful Florida wood.

 

[rherrell]

Welcome!

 

[Glenn McCullough]

Welcome from the mitten.
There is an OHIO local chapter, check it out in the local chapter forums area. There are some experienced people there who may be able to help you in person.
Please add your zip code to your profile if you haven't done so.

 

[Magicbob]

Welcome from Akron

 

[bobjackson]

Welcome from Elyria. Light cuts, sharp tools. Cut from the ends to the middle. We have a local chapter that will meet in August. Maybe we can do a demo on how to turn plastic.

 

[Jim15]

Welcome Mike.

 

[Sataro]

Welcome from Corsicana, TX!

 

[rholiday]

Welcome from South Carolina.

 

[SDB777]

Welcome aboard!!!!



Scott B