Hickory pen

[CMC75]

Hello woodworkers, wondering if anyone has a pen made of Shagbark Hickory. I have a lot of dried boards and wondering how it looks. Tried to search the key word"hickory" but still looking. Thought I would ask.


Also, (just starting pen turning) I read that not all pen kits are the same as far as quality even though they say they're the same. Can you help understand what to stay clear of in terms of buying pen kits?

 

[Woodchipper]

For the hickory, cut some blanks and turn them. I have turned pecan which is the first cousin of hickory. Bit of coarse grain but can be finished good with sandpaper and CA glue. There are a bunch of sources for pen kits. I'll let the more experienced member chime in here.

 

[SabertoothBunny]

First, the hickory you have will make some very attractive pens. Don't hesitate to use it.

Second, pen kit quality does vary. The main supplier from Taiwan who made a lot of the high quality kits turners liked closed and we are let primarily with Chinese manufacturers. There is one American made pen kit company that I know of.

All of that to say, don't stress over it starting out. I haven't had any major issues with the Chinese made kits over the years. Start out with what kits you like and can afford to just enjoy the process. Most of us started out with slimline kits and I still make a bunch of them. Don't get hung up over kit quality starting out.

Check out the resources tab for tutorials and many other things that can help you.

 

[CMC75]

There is one American made pen kit company that I know of.

Could you tell me where to find this product?

We did make slimline pens in our class. My 10 year old did a good job for his first time on a lathe. His is the light colored wood. First pen making for both of us.