Hello from Mt. Vernon, Illinois

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BoJo

BoJo

Member
Joined
Aug 15, 2009
Messages
8
Location
Mount Vernon, Illinois
Hello All:

Although I've dabbled in woodworking as a hobbyist for several years it was just recently that I bought a lathe hoping to develop some new skills. Never having used a lathe, I bought a few pen kits, figuring those kits would be a good introduction to turning. I've been pretty busy of late so I've only had time to turn a few simple slimlines. But just turning those few pens has already led to a "pen addiction." I know I have a long, long way to go before I will even come close to matching the artistry of the fantastic pens I have seen on this site.

Reading some of the posts in the various forums has been a great help in getting me started making pens. What has impressed me the most is the willingness of the members to share information with newcomers without talking down to them. I know "newbie" questions can sometimes be a pain for the experts but IAP members show remarkable tact and patience answering elementary questions.

I will be most proud to be associated with this fine group. It is my hope that someday, I too will be able to contribute something of value to the members.
 
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Welcome, from Wisconsin.

I lived in Salem, IL from 1975 until 1981. Actually, I lived in Odin from 1975 until 1978, then built a house in Salem. Anyway, I'm slightly familiar with your neck of the woods.
 
Welcome Bob, Thank you for your comments on how newcomers are treated in this group. It is not by accident that this happens. It is one of our foundational practices that support of penturners begins with supporting the beginning turner. No better way to support a person than to gain their trust and friendship. New turners are the life blood of the craft and this group.

You have come to the right place to treat your addiction. I think I can safely speak for everyone that the first course of action in addressing this debilitating condition. Is to reduce any pressure on your hips by eliminating anything that resembles currency from your wallet. This alone will improve your mobility and dexterity in preparation for step 2. Of course it is assumed that parting with all your money, you did so by acquiring an abundance of turning and turnable items. Now you are fully prepaired to avoid any and all complaints about how devistated the home finances are, by retreating to the shop and engrossing yourself in the presuit of the pefect creation. Do not be concerned with thoughts of having to re enter the "War Zone" as it is now known. Trivial matters such as Sleeping, Eating, and interacting with other people have now become a thing of the past. if you find it necessary to actually quit your job, remember others have gone before you. As you may be gathering by now, our answer to the Addiction is to feed it, feed it fat and proper, throw caution to the wind and abandon anything that resembles ratonal thought. Go with the flow, The only fish that try to swim against the stream, are heading to their death. Any thoughts other than those concerning new and better ideas are only signs of laziness, lack of dedication or otherwise needless distractions. And be sure to take the computer to the shop with you. You will need lots of support to stay the course, we are always here to help.
 
Welcome from Cartersville, GA. I used to live in Effingham (most of my family is still there), and grew up in Trenton, IL. My dad used to work at World Color Press in Mt. Vernon back in the day. Post some pictures of your pens when you get a chance!
 
ldb2000 said:
Welcome to the slippery slope to the poor house :biggrin:
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And while your on your way down, keep a watch out for loose tree roots, branches and burls to grab onto to slow down your fall . . . they can make some great turning material.

Really, welcome to the group (smiley).
 
Also from Mt.Vernon, Il

BoJo said:
Hello All:

Although I've dabbled in woodworking as a hobbyist for several years it was just recently that I bought a lathe hoping to develop some new skills. Never having used a lathe, I bought a few pen kits, figuring those kits would be a good introduction to turning. I've been pretty busy of late so I've only had time to turn a few simple slimlines. But just turning those few pens has already led to a "pen addiction." I know I have a long, long way to go before I will even come close to matching the artistry of the fantastic pens I have seen on this site.

Reading some of the posts in the various forums has been a great help in getting me started making pens. What has impressed me the most is the willingness of the members to share information with newcomers without talking down to them. I know "newbie" questions can sometimes be a pain for the experts but IAP members show remarkable tact and patience answering elementary questions.

I will be most proud to be associated with this fine group. It is my hope that someday, I too will be able to contribute something of value to the members.
Click to expand...
Hey Bob, I saw your post and wanted to let you know that I am from Mt.Vernon, Illinois also. You could contact me if you want to at drich4seth@hotmail.com. I would share info if that would interest you? Penturning is really cool and the better you get, the more challenging it can be! Sort of like Golf.
 
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