mesa pen kit

I use to turn Mesa kits (from Woodturningz.com) years ago, but for some reason switched to Gatsby kits. I have a large order coming up and am considering going back to Mesa kits. Any suggestions/comments? Thank you.

Hi, I'm new to the forum but have been turning pens for about 5-6 years now. I'm very frustrated and need some help, hopefully someone can tell me what I'm doing wrong. Last week I ordered a gun metal Mesa kit along with the carbon fiber artistiblank from woodturningz, I couldn't wait to turn it...

Was really worried when I started because although I painted the brass tube orange, I could clearly see that tube inside the unspun blank. Turned out well after all. Anyway, this Mesa pen/stylus is going to be sent out to my mom some 2300 miles away.