My first Gisi epoxy blank

[NGLJ]

I realize that you can purchase Gisi blanks but to me it is far more fun and educational to try and make your own. Creating the shell from which you can make the a silicone mold is probably best achieved using a 3D printer, but I don't have one so I had to settle for using my CNC. That meant not being able to get the sharp corners in some places, since I had to use a ⅛" bit. I tried with 1/16" bit but that requires cutting from both sides, and so far I have not mastered that! I created the vectors in Inkscape and the gcode in Carveco Maker. I made a silicone mold from the CNC result and cast a shell (red) for the Gisi. This was an experiment and so I didn't get too fancy with the colors. The finished blank is shown attached. I will turn it and make a Sierra style pen.

 

[hewunch]

Can't wait to see it round

 

[egnald]

Very interesting - I am anxious to see it turned - Dave

 

[NGLJ]

That might have to wait. Strangely, I had some blowout when drilling. I might be able to salvage it. If not it is back to making another one. Every failure is a learning opportunity.

 

[NGLJ]

I did decide to turn it just to see how it would come out - see attached. Because of the blowout on one end I could not make it even between top and bottom. Did not like the result, so did not make a pen from it. It is always a learning exercise. Hope to be happier with the next one!

 

[NGLJ]

Please see attached my latest more successful Gisi style pen. No blowout this time. This is a different design from my first attempt. The kit is Maple Leaf, which is exclusive to William Wood-Write, and the plating is gun metal.