Loose centerbands, why?

[Fred in NC]

I buy tubes in 10" lengths, and cut the tube to the combined
lengths of the barrel and centerband. Then I glue both barrel
and centerband on the same tube. This results in a stronger pen,
especially if the centerband is wood and narrow. It is much
easier too.

This is a pen I made last year. It sold right away.

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[tipusnr]

If you're going to make the centerband out of the same wood and then glue it to the top tube, why not just turn it from the top blank? Not that there's anything wrong with the way you're doing it...I was just curious.

 

[Fred in NC]

If you look closely, the centerband is laminated too.

I use a bit longer tube to keep the proportions. And
make the centerband part of the lower tube simply
because that is what the users expect, that the band
will stay there. Otherwise they might be trying to
split the pen in the wrong place.

I hope this makes sense!

 

[Guest]

I've done it both ways,
I sometimes "part off" the top and add a contrasting piece like a Euro style.
There also times when I haven't decided what the center band will be until the barrels are finished.

 

[DCBluesman]

I really like the creativity shown here (and elsewhere) in creating these different centerbands. I guess my laziness shows in that I have yet to try this. Out of curiosity, does eveyone except me hate the center bands, or is this an enoyable way to express additional creativity? [8D]

 

[daledut]

In reply to the question in the subject line, I use a fixed CB like you describe when I cut the tube myself. However, if I am using stock tube, I make a loose CB with a 1/4" hole since it will not have the internal support of the tube.

 

[Fred in NC]

Centerbands are just one more design element that is available to us !
The kit itself and the wood or other barrel material are two of those elements. We can pick and choose other ways to enhance the finished product:

Color
Shape/form
Replacing part of the kit, such as the centerband or top.
Adding other materials such as stones, rings, etc.
Decorating with decals, hand painted designs, etc.
Finishes.
And many more!

We all have different tastes and styles, which is great!

 

[tipusnr]

I agree with Fred wholeheartedly. I do, often, use a stock centerband when it goes with the design of the pen I'm making. Since I don't often make the traditional slimline pen the use of the stock centerband means incorporating the thin "wasp" waist into the design.

If you decide not to make your own...no problem! There are plenty of pre-made bands made to compliment any wood or design. Or look around the house as there are plenty of items to use as bands, including bands from sample pens.

 

[Guest]

Originally posted by DCBluesman
<br />I really like the creativity shown here (and elsewhere) in creating these different centerbands. I guess my laziness shows in that I have yet to try this. Out of curiosity, does eveyone except me hate the center bands, or is this an enoyable way to express additional creativity? [8D]

I put those stupid little center bands in a bag and when someone wants them I send them( eventually right Bev?)