New to Pen Turning (tool recommendations)

[Old Codger]

Hi Everyone! I've turned a number of projects over the past couple of years but never a pen or pencil... Sooo, I'm quite a 'newbie' in this turning area. My question is, what type of tools do most pen turners use to drill, turn, finish and assemble their projects? I already have a nice adjustable pen mandrel, pen mandrel saver, 7 piece pen/pencil squaring kit and all sorts of smaller and miniature turning tools, multispeed drill press, Jet 1221VS lathe, that I also use for other small projects. I've been looking at several drilling center rigs and pen presses but have no idea which one to purchase especially after reading some of the reviews and I'm not sure if I also need other tools, sand paper, finishing materials, etc.? Any/all assistance and recommendations will be greatly appreciated!

 

[plantman]

Hi Everyone! I've turned a number of projects over the past couple of years but never a pen or pencil... Sooo, I'm quite a 'newbie' in this turning area. My question is, what type of tools do most pen turners use to drill, turn, finish and assemble their projects? I already have a nice adjustable pen mandrel, pen mandrel saver, 7 piece pen/pencil squaring kit and all sorts of smaller and miniature turning tools, multispeed drill press, Jet 1221VS lathe, that I also use for other small projects. I've been looking at several drilling center rigs and pen presses but have no idea which one to purchase especially after reading some of the reviews and I'm not sure if I also need other tools, sand paper, finishing materials, etc.? Any/all assistance and recommendations will be greatly appreciated!

Everyone has their own favorite tools they use, so it's to suggest tools beyond the basics you already have. I would go into the library on site here and look for the ways other people use their tools, how, and why. Each pen maker has his or her own way of proforming a task no matter if it's preporation, turning , or applying a finish. There is no correct tool or method of doing something, only what you learn and are comfortable with doing yourself. Youtube and pen turning books will show you what to start with and how to use the tools needed. The generous members of this site will answer any questions that you may need answers for. Jim S

 

[TBCbushings]

I have a pen press Rikon Lathe, Carbide turning tool that I make, Drill press, pen mill. There are hundreds of ways to use tools. I would try a few and see what you like to use best.

 

[mikespenturningz]

I use my lathe for all of my drilling. I don't use the carbide tool very often anymore I use my skew most of the time so if you have a skew you won't need anything else in that department.. I would say other than my band saw I do all other operations right on me 1221

 

[shastastan]

I'll just mention chisels. Everyone has their favorite and/or "go to" tools. Mike likes his skew and obviously is quite proficient with with. Some folks are quite good with scraper types such as a bedan or carbide tip tools. I use the carbide tipped tools now. They work well for me and sharpening is a snap. I used to use a Sorby mini roughing gouge and 3/8 and 1/4 spindle gouges. I use Harrison Specialties and Easy Tools pen rougher carbide tools. Good suggestion is to try before you buy. Not possible for me since there are no stores here that even have turning tools other than HF. I've bought everything on line. YMMV.

 

[WoodKnot]

I'm also new to pen turning, I'm still researching the hobby trying to determine what I need to add to my shop and how much I plan to spend. I have a pretty good idea what drill press and lathe I want to get but the turning tools and assorted accessories is what I'm researching now.

I've signed up for a class at my local Woodcraft store, I figure I'll lean more there. In the mean time I'm designing a couple mobile workbenches because my shop is shared with a car.

 

[Lenny]

I love my Woodchuck Pen Pro made by IAP member Ken Farrell. I also wouldn't want to be without my collet chuck and complete set of ER32 collets.

 

[randyrls]

Any/all assistance and recommendations will be greatly appreciated!

Ken; There is a Wiki that contains a lot of good information. Click the "Wiki" link at the top of the page to go there. Most of the tools you already have are certainly useable for pens. The most important part of learning is to practice, practice, practice!