This presentation is built around a detailed description of turning, sanding, finishing and assembly of the basic "Slimline" pen from the parts kit. Because it is known by different names by different suppliers, I use "Slim-Line" to include all of them. This presentation will generally follow the instructions that are included with the pen parts, with details on how I make the pen. Each of the "custom" pens will refer back to these "Slim-Line" instructions where the techniques are the same. The instruction pages can be accessed from the yellow buttons that are below the text on every page. I hope that the jumping around within these pages isn't too confusing to the reader.
About The Author and The Articles
I have been making pens since I saw an article on how to make a pend from a kit in a 1988 issue of Wood Magazine. A drill press was used to spin the wood, and the turning tool was made from a screwdriver. Since then I have made about 200 pens every year to sell and give as gifts. Most of them are made from the Slim-Line series of kits. That may not qualify me as an expert among pencrafters, but I have learned a few things about making a pen that I can share with others.
You will note the absence of any mention of the pencil in these pages. Except for the occasional boxed set for a graduation present, I have never found a market for a pencil. Besides that, I have been disappointed with the quality of all pencil kits.
This presentation began with my wanting to take a few photos, add some words, and share some techniques and thoughts about making pens. This effort would also provide the experience that I will need for several more ambitious presentations that I want to make available. However, taking these photos put the making of a pen in a new perspective. I was impressed with the number of steps that are required, and how much the quality of the finished product is compromised by our failure to execute any one of them properly. And, I quickly realized that it would take more than "just a few" photos and words to describe how I make a pen.
The pen is advertised as a simple project that anyone can do, and they are considered as a "beginners project" by many in the woodturning community. Yet, these are not a simple project. I can now understand why so many beginners are having problems with their pens. These pages are presented as an introduction to the art of making a basic pen and several variations from a single parts kit. This is a description of how I make the pens. I will leave it to the reader to determine its value.
I would appreciate any comments or suggestions for improving this presentation. I invite the expert penmakers to refer it to beginning penmakers if they believe that it will be of some value to them. My E-mail address is grusserry@aol.com
The "Slimline" parts kit
