Denim

[dlindquist]

I bought one of those stabilized denim blanks from AS. I think my daughter will get a kick out of it. Has anyone ever worked with this? Do I finish it as wood, or acrylic? (I'm a beginner pen turner)Any suggestions for pen style with denim? Thanks for input.

 

[ed4copies]

You start by sharpening your tools!!!!!

After you turn for a few minutes be prepared to sharpen your tools AGAIN!!

I finish it like acrylic, because it is mostly resin-based and you CAN get a nice shine. Although, it is actually closer to corncob - you use a CA finish to fill any difficulties, THEN MM and buff - tripoli, white diamond.

If you don't have a buffer, the plastic polishes should work, too.

 

[dlindquist]

Thanks very much, Ed. Do you (or anyone else out there) have any photos of a denim pen?

 

[ed4copies]

This points out why I have a lousy reputation in photography. Was done when I first arrived at IAP. I have lightened it, but it is still pretty bad - lighten your monitor, it helps a little!![][][]

 

[alamocdc]

Originally posted by dlindquist
<br />Thanks very much, Ed. Do you (or anyone else out there) have any photos of a denim pen?

You mean like this?

<b>Image Insert:</b><br />

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Or this?

<b>Image Insert:</b><br />

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NOTE: These are NOT purchased blanks. I roll my own.[]

 

[wood-of-1kind]

Originally posted by ed4copies

This points out why I have a lousy reputation in photography. ]

Ed, be thankful that it ends with your photos. It really could be worse you know[]

-Peter-[]

 

[ed4copies]

Thanks Billy!!!

THOSE are WORTH posting!!!

The purchased blanks are NEW denim, Billy wore his. Eagle made me some "used" ones, too. I think they look better, but a real pain to make!!

 

[ed4copies]

Originally posted by dlindquist
<br />I bought one of those stabilized denim blanks from AS. I think my daughter will get a kick out of it. Has anyone ever worked with this? Do I finish it as wood, or acrylic? (I'm a beginner pen turner)Any suggestions for pen style with denim? Thanks for input.

DON'T use something that gets real thin. (Baron cap, Gent cap or slimline) Stick with "fatty pens": Cigar, Sierra.

(Yes, I know I show a baron, but if you haven't turned a lot of plastic, don't take that chance!!!)[][]

 

[jwalt191]

Here is one I made with CA and Denim on a KC Twist style pen. The CA dulls your tools so much faster than acrylic and polyester blanks, so sharpen often. I still need more work with filling the voids with CA, but its coming around. Thanks Jim

These can also be viewed at www.jilly-bella.com under the gallery. My photos leave alot to be desired. Sorry

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[ed4copies]

Jim, YOUR pen looks great, so don't take this as criticism.

I suggest using a pen that reinforces the ends of the material - not a "slip on center band" type. The denim could unwind at Jim's center, over time. You can minimize this by dousing the ends with CA after you use the pen mill, but it is easier and more reliable to have the metal fittings reinforcing the denim (permanently).

 

[dlindquist]

Thanks. You guys rule.