Jimm
I use a scew on the flat as a scraper for the final shape gives about 400 grit finish then 800 wet,gives a great finish,over here we would send a pic to show but not sure of the protocol,wet and dry then 1000 w&d,then 2000 w&d.Cleaning between grades then the tube brasso it is creamier and easier to use.Great you can buy short lengths and such a variety of materials so easily,would use my E Mail address and talk to you more in derail send me a PM with your home E Mail.
Mikey we must live on another planet here a collet chuck mandrel cost 29 our dollars it has a thread in the small end of the 2 Morse Taper to that I screw a threaded Rod(correct term at last) through the head stock with a turned brass sleeve and double nutted at the end.I turn half a pen at a time for accuracy,I use a removable sleeve with a snug fit in the tail stock live centre that sleeves about 1/2 inch on the end of the mandrel.I bought a Beal type Collet Chuck for my Taig Lathe cost 80 dollars and 20 dollars each collet size,I use bushings,or spacers to separate the beginning and end of the blank from the chisel,to give size and separation,again if you wish I will send you pics on your E Mail to explain bear in mind I am 73 yrs old,my use of english is maybe different to yours but be in no doubt my desire to share my experience in what I understand is IAP ie International.I long ago dedicated a Vicmarc VL100 for pens,I have stayed with Slimlines purposely for economy and purpose.
Regards Peter