First pens

I got a Penn State lathe in the mail earlier today, along with a huge number of these slimline pen and pencil kits and some padauk and rosewood blanks. I figured it’d be a good way to learn some turning basics before moving into more interesting projects.

(These aren’t actually the first, I gave the first 4 away already before I had a chance to take any pictures)

Fun projects, I’ll probably give them away to my co-workers or something. Pen turning is definitely enjoyable, particularly since I was able to make 12 of them in a fairly short period of time. There’s a lot of be said for instant gratification. =)

Once I finish all these cheapish kits, I’ll have to explore some of the more interesting ones, as well as some more exotic blanks. I doubt I’ll ever be the sort that does nothing but turn pens, but its a nice way to spend 20 minutes in the shop and have something to show for it.

-- Dylan Vanderhoof - General hobbiest and reluctant penmaker. http://llarian.etsy.com