Holly and Curly Maple Pens from today

[theidlemind]

Turned a couple of pens today from the blanks that I have running in classifieds right now. The maple isn't super curly because I got a blank from the edge of the tree. It even has bark on it!
And I'm still learning about pen making. I learned today that if you make a custom finial that you need to assemble the components before you glue the finial in. I cracked the maple one, now I get to scrape it out and make another.
C&C please

 

[mikespenturningz]

I have started making custom finials also. I have not had any of them crack while assembling yet. I did notice a bit of glue overage on your pens. I use a toothpick to apply the glue. You really don't need much as you have already figured out. These pens look great otherwise. Keep up the good work!

 

[plantman]

Very nice work!! I love the Holly. Jim S

 

[seamus7227]

Wow! I absolutely love the finish on that first one(maple)! HOw many coats of CA did you put on that?! Looks like glass

 

[theidlemind]

The maple took quite a bit of thin CA because the bark was awful thirsty. There's probably only 5 or 6 coats of medium though.
Thanks!
Sure wish I hadn't messed up the finial.

 

[theidlemind]

Very nice work!! I love the Holly. Jim S

I like the Holly too. And this Holly has a history, it was around during the Civil War at the Battle of Richmond, KY.

 

[mrcook4570]

Very nice group of pens!