Phil: Nice pens and box! When I make custom pen boxes, I will measure the inside of my box or drawer and cut a piece of 5/8th or 3/4 inch wood or birch covered mdf stock to fit inside. I then take this piece to one of my table mounted routers with a 1/2 inch carbide tipped core box bit protruding 1/2 inch above the table. Allow 3/16th to a 1/4 inch on each side and divide the remaining space into the number of pens that will fit, allowing 1/4 inch between pens. Using scrap lumber to start, mark the center of your first cut 1/2 inch in from the edge of your wood. Line the mark up to the center of the core box bit and set your fence to this distance. Hold your board tight to the fence and run your piece over the bit several times to make a clean cut. Now turn the board 180 and do the same. If you are doing an odd number of pens (5) Mark off you board at the center and route this line. Next measure the distance between cuts and mark off the center, reset your fence, cut this mark. Turn your board 180 and repete. If all your marks were correct you should have 5 evenly spaced grooves for your pens. If you want an even number of pens (4-6) you will have to do a little more math and trial and err until it looks pleasing. Once you have the correct spaceing, keep this scrap piece as your template for setting up your fence and router bit next time!! I will use exotic woods for these trays or scrap woods covered with felt or contact paper. Or, you can purchase a flocking kit from craft stores and do your sides in a contrasting color. I am working on several new boxes now and will post photos or information on how to make pen boxes. Jim S
