That sir is the true definition of craftsmanship. Stunning pen. I wouldn't be surprised to see a massive price tag on a similar pen of lesser quality in a retail setting. You have hit another one out of the park. Haha. We'll have to start calling you The Louisville Slugger.
Thanks Mitchell, My mind is spinning with ideas for designs I can make with this technique. I am having way to much fun. It must be all the caffeine from the cans I'm emptying. :^) Regards, Bob
Thank you Carl, I have had several people ask for more information on just how I made the blank. I am in the process of editing some video just about creating the blank. It won't be for everyone but those who are interested in recreating this pen should like it. Regards, Bob
Woohoo! I made the 400 likes! :-) Really enjoyed the way pattern emerged as it was turned. My grandfather used to carve wood beautifully and he always said the shape or patterns were already in the wood. All he had to do was carefully uncover them! Came across these videos by accident as I love watching people making stuff. I'm enjoying them all very much! :-) Armon
Thank you Mike, I have been asked several times to show more of the designing of the pen so I am making a follow up video for the layout and design only. No cutting or turning. Regards, Bob
I've been wanting a wood lathe for a few years now. Never had the "Personal Drive" to get one until I started watching your videos. Keep making 'em....they're AWESOME!!!
I see what you did cherry blank with a coke can "cherry coke" very clever. Also by far the nicest and most elegant pen I have seen yet from anyone and that's the truth.
Wow...a friend mentioned that he was trying to make his own pen..which made me search on youtube to see if there were some tutorials on how that was done. I've been watching a few of your videos since, and they're amazing...they're entertaining, informative, and the end results are really cool. This one though was just spectacular...I never expected that pattern to come out! Well done, and thanks for the work you do to create these videos!
this is really a fantastic design. I know a lot of it is trial and error, and maybe being surprised by the end result, but to try to envision a Celtic knot pattern by drawing out zigzag lines on a blank takes some imagination! great job; can't wait to try it! Cheers
Fantastic idea there. I need to try this same method and then again with two different veneers in place of the can. Use a dark one on the down slope cuts and a light one on the upslope cuts. Thanks for the video and planting ideas.
Fantastic Pen blank Bob . This complicated but simple to make pen blank is outstanding One of the best if Not the best I have seen on the Web Fantastic BoBYou keep coming up with these great Ideas for pen blanks from day to day stuff that every body has laying around Just fantastic
Thank you John, I have had several PM's wanting to know more about how I made the blank. I'm thinking about a follow up video for the design and assemble process only. No sawing or turning just measuring and drawing out the pattern and any tips I can give to speed the process. That way I can keep it short. What do you think? Regards, Bob
RJBWoodTurner Bob It is always good to have a video explaining the layout and the details of the project, though you don't seem to see to many .Go for it, you are good at explaining yourself and a design video would be a great follow up to your great Pen Blank. For something like this blank simple but complicated a power point step by step download maybe an idea as well it is good to have a set of instructions for a project.John
Bob, That is one awesome pen. When I saw your last pen I wasn't all that impressed with the pattern but seeing this, just WOW. Celtic Knots are one of the coolest things I've ever seen and I think it looks amazing on that pen.
That is the most beautiful turned pen I have seen made online. I have seen a few rosewood with gold inlay fountain pens that rank up there, but your pen is just beautiful. Congratulations on the design, implementation, and creation of a great writing tool.
Thank you, Your comment blew me away, thank you so much for that. I deeply appreciate you saying what you did. I am at a loss for words and not really sure how to say thank you. Regards, Bob
You've done a great job here Bob. I've turned meant Celtic knot pens using 2mm thick aluminium flat bar as an insert, but this takes it in a new direction. Cheers Tom
Bob, this is beyond cool. Saw the question about the glue holding it together or not. While watching, I kept thinking, what a cool lidded box this would make. Will let you know how that works out. Thanks for sharing the idea and method, Fred
Thank you, You will get your wish, I am making a follow up video that shows the making of the blank only. No cutting or turning just all the steps to making this blank. I'm editing it now and it should be out soon. Regards, Bob
I've been watching your videos nonstop the last few days and it gave me a great idea. I'm going to try guitar pick strips in place of aluminum or veneer since they come in some awesome colors. I only say this in case you want to try it before I get to it, and I can also see what you come up with if you try it.
@@RJBWoodTurner I teach middle school and just assigned about 300 students to come watch some of your videos. Since we are in quarantine they might not be able to make pens, but they can still design them. So I'm hoping you get a lot of likes, because you deserve it.
Impressive. I am currently starting to look at making a Celtic Knot pen myself. I was thinking of cutting up a plastic card. I usually take my cans to be recycled but I think I can maybe use a few to make a pen. Thanks.
I say go for it! Even if the first batch doesn’t turn out you’ll leant something for another blank down the road. One thing to remember that I did t know when I first started making Celtic knot blanks, the piece you insert into the cut must equal the thickness of the blade that cut the slot. Otherwise the pattern will be off. Also, sand the surface of the can, they sometimes have a layer covering them. Regards, Bob
Love your pen. Ive tried 2 pens. 1st on not too great but 2nd better. Found I have to be more careful cutting pattern. Will try again soon. Thanks. Steve
I can't believe this Rob! Last week I was going to make a pen with alloy strips in it and then I saw your video covering the same method. This weekend I have been working on a Celtic pen and you posted this one Lol Great minds think alike huh? I must admit though my Celtic pen is not quite as amazing as this one but I will still post the video when its finished. anyway :-) All the best my friend. Tony
Thank you Tony, I need a video for next week, what do you have on to your mind this week. :^) I can't wait to see your video, I always love what you do. Regards, Bob
Congratulations bob not only are you hooked on pens but on segmentation too now. As for the paint on the cans would it not be easy enough to scrap off with a stanley knife blade, I don't know as it's still on my tuit list. Another great video an lovely pen thanks
Thank you John, I'm not really sure how the paint on the cans will effect the pens ofer time. I think sanding it off with an Emory cloth for the pens where it doesn't show may be the best option. I have several designs where I want the cans to show. I'm not sure what to do about those except let time tell. And your right, I'm hooked. :^) Regards, Bob Regards, Bob
Where can you get thin flexible brass. I've segmented with copper but I think it is too thick to conform to tight turns. Thanks again for your adventures in pen making
+Barry Fields Thank you Barry, I wasn't going to at first but I figured if I showed a photo someone else would figure it out. This way, I have a time date stamped video proving I made it. Regards, Bob
I have done several Celtic knot pens like this one. On some I have had a problem with the knots not completely forming. Sometimes they only form well on one or two sides. I enjoy the Celtic knots and will try your next idea of one large knot on each half of the blank. Any suggestions?
Very nice. Are you concerned about the longevity of the CA bond? How about the ultimate strength- like what if you had the pen in your back pocket, and sat down-? This gives me something to shoot for. Thanks for posting!
Thank you Dan, I am always concerned with the longevity of the pens I make. I want the recipient to enjoy them for many years. I do know that C/A is very rigid when dry and can be hard on tools. I hope that rigidity transfers to the rest of the blank. Truthfully, I think only time will tell how they hold up. I plan to use one on a daily basis and I am rather hard on my pens so I may have a more realistic answer at some point in the future. Do you have any info on the life span of C/A? Regards, Bob
That is one stunning pen Bob. Did you repeat cutting the "V" shape on all four sides? I didn't quite get what was taking place for the video. Please excuse me................ I'm old. JimE
Hello Jim, Yes I did repeat the cut on all four sides. I have had so many questions about that that I'm going to do a video on just making the blank which will go into detail on how I made it. Regards, Bob
Beautiful pen. How did the aluminum cut on the scroll saw? Was it very noticeable on the last couple of cuts on the scroll saw with that much aluminum in the blank?
Bob, just had an idea after watching another turner's video with acrylic. I enjoy making my own acrylic blanks and the video I saw showed how to pour acrylic "ribbons". The ribbons were thin enough to become pliable after curing when applying a little heat. Since you have mixed materials in previous blanks, have you considered using an acrylic ribbon with a wood blank instead of a soda can? Would there be adhesion issues with these two completely different materials?
That is an incredible idea! I'm not sure about adhesion issues but I know a guy who makes ribbon blanks and I'm going to send him a note as ask if he'll sell me just the ribbons for a test. If he will, there will be a video and we'll test the adhesion. Thank you, this is a really good idea. Regards, Bob
Hello Kjell, I used Medium C/A glue. I always use C/A when I'm experimenting due to time constraints but I would recommend epoxy for its better hold. Regards, Bob
Oh wow Bob that pen is fantastic. A real piece of art. Brilliant technique. How does the aluminium hold up to all the glujng? I need to try this. Cheers Bob
Thank you Bob, I have had no issues with the Aluminum. I'm not sure about cans in the UK but in the U.S., they are extremely thin and form very easily to the pattern of the blank. You definitely need to try this, you will love it and the materials to make it are dirt cheap. Regards, Bob
Bob, I’ve just kitten into pen making and trying to recreate your creations. What scroll saw do you have? My 30 year old craftsman is not up to the task of cutting the blanks. Thanks for your videos!
That was amazing. I just finished watching another celtic knot design video, but they showed the final project. I was dying to know what it looked like before it was turned down to final size and you delivered. Thank you, sir, I can't wait to give this a try.
Thank you Tyler, I used an Olsen 2/0 Crown Tooth blade. It cut with no problem but each blade was only good for one blank. They were shot after that. Regards, Bob
What a neat looking pen! I would keep it too. Lol. Did you use CA glue or gorilla glue to glue the parts together? I don't think you mentioned it in the video if you did I've forgot. Lol. Great video. How much could a pen like this sell for?
Thank you, I used C/A to glue everything up. I'd probably ask between $25 and $30 for a slim line version and more for more expensive kits. Regards, Bob
These are extremely inexpensive to make from a cost stand point. It's the labor, they are a bit time consuming. If you could batch them out, that would be a huge plus. Everyone I've showed them to loves them because their different and they especially like them if their made from their favorite soda. Regards, Bob
RJBWoodTurner Yeah that is true. Mostly labor and a little bit of materials. Haha. They might even turn into a collectors piece with the favorite soda can inside. Ha.
Thank you Bo, I haven't tried either of those materials but I would love to. Leather is probably more available to me so I'll add that to my ideas list. Regards, Bob
I have done 2 previous Celtic knot pens with aluminum. (Like yours). I just turned a similar pen - Purple Heart with brass. It turn out great except the wood near the brass is burned ....... looks like it got hot.. am I turning it too fast or does brass get hotter than aluminum? Any suggestions?. Love your site. Steve B
This pen came out looking really, really cool. I think that it is fantastic. Have you considered turning stacked pieces of leather and making a pen out of that? You would probably have to harden them beforehand with some sort of resin. What about some sort of stacked pattern for the aluminum?
Most of the pen blanks I think have the grain going up and down the pen, in the same direction as the brass tubes (I might be wrong about this). I was asking if you meant you would be stacking them so that the grain of the pieces would be going with the brass tubes.
Rookie question. I am new to using the scroll saw. How did you turn the blank 45° on the saw and still keep such a narrow cut? I'm worried I'll cut through or, worse yet, end up cutting a groove they creates a gap.
Hello Chris, I used a 2:0 Crown tooth blade their very thin and allow me to make sharp turns. The Aluminum wears them out fast so it's about one blade per blank. I just finished version 2 of the soda can pen. It has one knot on each section of the pen. Regards, Bob
Gorgeous pen! Did you use a template to set the same pattern on all four sides? Throughly enjoy your work, especially your adventures into concept pens. Pens that provide the rest of us a new project idea.
+Bama Breeze Hello, I didn't technically have a template but I did draw boxes around the blank with my ruler to keep it as symmetrical as I could. If you were to make a large number of these blanks a template would be a great idea. Bob
Excellent and stunning but please wear golves. CA on your fingers looks uncomfortable. Do you find the overlap from the can can be obvious on the finished pen? If so how is that made less noticable? Having the space between the ends and center band to be perfectly even is also great and skill is needed there.
Hello Joe, You can see the overlap of the two pieces of Aluminum but you really have to look for them. To help with the gaps between the cap, nib, and center band, I use a carbide barrel trimmer. It gives a nice tight alignment and really enhances the finished look of the pen. Regards, Bob
On this one, you don't see much of the colors. On the other one I'm working on with curves you do. I am making a Mt. Dew and Sprite mix for a friend. If it looks cool, I will locate a Pepsi can and make one. Regards, Bob
I'm wondering if you can find some copper sheeting that is about the thickness of the aluminum can and use it instead, perhaps with a darker wood. Might be a nice contrast.
RJBWoodTurner Well, I don't have wood turning equipment or supplies, if you decide to turn the copper let me know how she turns out. I'd be interested to see it.
why would you not mark all four sides opposed to one side at a time. It'll be some time before I can get to my shop to do this but I was wondering why you did one side at a time. Great results from an experiment.
Jerry, That was the way I was taught to make Celtic knots. I have had some great dialogue with several woodturners who are far more experienced than me since this video went live and have had explained to me that doing opposite sides enhances the proportionality of the knot. As I move forward, I will be attempting the opposite side method as opposed to what I did in this video. Regards, Bob
I actually thought you would use different lines because you are adding to the thickness of the blank with the aluminum. But you use the same lines around the gerth. Guess the change is too small to notice. Have you ever seen someone else do this???
Sorry Jerry, I misunderstood your question. I used the same lines because I felt like the difference between the blade thickness, an Olsen 2/0 Crown Tooth, and the thickness of the Aluminum were negligible. If I were using a thicker or thinner veneer, I would have redrawn the lines and adjusted up or down on the blank to accommodate. Also, I was free handing the cuts so I knew they would be no where near as perfect as a good jig would make. I have never seen anyone cutting a blank this way. I have heard of people who use Aluminum as a veneer but have also never seen a pen made with that method. I love Using my scroll saw as much as I love my lathe and I was looking for a way to use both of them to make a pen. This is the result of some free time experimenting in the shop. Regards, Bob
Thank you Jimmy, This new YT tool is showing me all the comments I missed over the years. Apologies for not responding sooner. I hope you're still watching and enjoying my videos. If you haven't checked out the channel for a while, please stop by and see some of the newer videos. I've made a bunch of the over the years. Regards, Bob
Bob, have you filmed the process of cutting the soda can to size and gluing the aluminum to the wooden blanks? I would like to see how you do that part of it. Is the metal soft enough to push it into the pattern you've cut into the wood? Thanks!
Hello Rick, I used a Dremel tool with a fiberglass cut off wheel to remove the top and bottom of the can then just split it with tin snips. I probably could have use tin snips on the top and bottom too I guess. The aluminum strips are super flexible and molded right to the cuts. I did place them in dry and clamp the wood to form the basic shape before adding the glue. Regards, Bob
RJBWoodTurner Bob, I did view the cutting of the coke can and wondered how the aluminum pieces were fit into the blanks. Thanks for the quick answer. I see that you used your scroll saw to make the cuts once the blanks were ready and looks like they did the job. Thanks again! Rick
Hello Rick, The scroll saw did a great job, I was using a 2/0 Crown Tooth blade from Olden. One blank pretty much destroyed a blade. I would recommend a thicker blade. I used what I had.
+RJBWoodTurner Bob, I made a blank today, following your method. I must say that you make this look easy, and that's a compliment to your skills! My scroll saw doesn't hold a straight line very well, so my end result does not look nearly as neat as yours does. And, what a mess! I ended up using 5 minute epoxy because CA glue didn't hold well enough. It's very tedious to cut 4 sides of the blank and then glue and clamp and dry each time, and it took some hours to get 'er done. I'm ready to turn the pen, but I need to get a proper pen kit first. My blank is too short for a Slimline, so I'll probably get a Wall Street II pen kit and see how it turns out. I'm looking forward to finishing it. The next time you use this method how about trying RC for blue, 7 Up for Green, and some other color coke can for the last side and see how it turns out? I'll get back to you later as to how my pen turned out. Rick
I hate that you had so much trouble. Please do send me a photo once you finish the pen. I will try mixing cans, I have done Dr. Pepper and Sprite together and it turned out really nice. Regards, Bob
Just wondering if there are any concerns with the small flecks of the can getting into your eyes or are they so small its not an issue. Want to try this, looks so cool.
Should always wear eye protection, even better is a full face shield. Pens aren't to bad about coming apart, but it does happen. Bowls and other projects on the other hand, can come out and a shield helps greatly. Happy turning
Excellent concern Kylie, I wear a full face shield and have my shop vac running. Hopefully what one doesn't stop the other will. I always wear a shield because I worry about small flying debris with every turning I do. Regards, Bob
Thank you Steve, This new YT tool is showing me all the comments I missed over the years. Apologies for not responding sooner. I hope you're still watching and enjoying my videos. If you haven't checked out the channel for a while, please stop by and see some of the newer videos. I've made a bunch of the over the years. Regards, Bob
That is absolutely beautiful Bob! Awesome work.
Thank you Wes,
Regards,
Bob
That sir is the true definition of craftsmanship. Stunning pen. I wouldn't be surprised to see a massive price tag on a similar pen of lesser quality in a retail setting. You have hit another one out of the park. Haha. We'll have to start calling you The Louisville Slugger.
Thanks Mitchell,
My mind is spinning with ideas for designs I can make with this technique. I am having way to much fun. It must be all the caffeine from the cans I'm emptying. :^)
Regards,
Bob
That is a big WOW Bob...love this pen blank & the finish pen..great work :)!!
Thank you Pamela. 😃
Your right that is awesome!! love this one Bob!
Take care,
Carl
Thank you Carl,
I have had several people ask for more information on just how I made the blank. I am in the process of editing some video just about creating the blank. It won't be for everyone but those who are interested in recreating this pen should like it.
Regards,
Bob
Woohoo! I made the 400 likes! :-)
Really enjoyed the way pattern emerged as it was turned. My grandfather used to carve wood beautifully and he always said the shape or patterns were already in the wood. All he had to do was carefully uncover them!
Came across these videos by accident as I love watching people making stuff. I'm enjoying them all very much! :-)
Armon
Thank you Armon,
I appreciate the kind comments.
Regards,
Bob
Now that is a stunning pen Bob, thanks for showing us your method.
Take care
Mike
Thank you Mike,
I have been asked several times to show more of the designing of the pen so I am making a follow up video for the layout and design only. No cutting or turning.
Regards,
Bob
Bob, its simply stunning. This could become your signature pen!
Congrats on a great job!
Take care,
Mark
Thank you Mark,
Hopefully this will be the first in a series of pens. I have other ideas I only hope they are as cool as this one.
Regards,
Bob
Shared with my wife. With the new lathe she is getting interested in turning and pens are one of the things she is interested in doing.
Very nice. If she has any questions, let me know, I'd be happy to try and answer the for her.
Regards,
Bob
This will be one of my first as soon as I get a little better. Thanks for the tutorial Bob.
Thank you for watching Joe.
Regards,
Bob
I've been wanting a wood lathe for a few years now. Never had the "Personal Drive" to get one until I started watching your videos. Keep making 'em....they're AWESOME!!!
+Vans Custom Leather Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
I see what you did cherry blank with a coke can "cherry coke" very clever. Also by far the nicest and most elegant pen I have seen yet from anyone and that's the truth.
Thank you very much, your comment means a great deal to me. I have another in the works, hopefully it turns out.
Regards,
Bob
another great looking pen and video
Thank you Frank,
I am having way to much fun.
Regards,
Bob
Very good work and nice pen. Great. Thank you for showing me this technical
+Ernst Becker Thank you for watching and commenting Ernst,
I'm glad you liked the video.
Regards,
Bob
Wow...a friend mentioned that he was trying to make his own pen..which made me search on youtube to see if there were some tutorials on how that was done. I've been watching a few of your videos since, and they're amazing...they're entertaining, informative, and the end results are really cool. This one though was just spectacular...I never expected that pattern to come out! Well done, and thanks for the work you do to create these videos!
Thank you. I really appreciate your comment.
Regards,
Bob
Wow! You are a true artist sir!
Thank you Ryan.
Regards,
Bob
this is really a fantastic design. I know a lot of it is trial and error, and maybe being surprised by the end result, but to try to envision a Celtic knot pattern by drawing out zigzag lines on a blank takes some imagination! great job; can't wait to try it! Cheers
+Sig Guy Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
Wow - how cool is that? You have really come up with something new here. Very creative!
Thank you Fredrik,
I am having so much fun making these pens. I only wish I had more time in the shop to experiment.
Regards,
Bob
Fantastic idea there. I need to try this same method and then again with two different veneers in place of the can. Use a dark one on the down slope cuts and a light one on the upslope cuts. Thanks for the video and planting ideas.
Thank you Ted,
I appreciate the info on using light and dark veneers, that is a great idea.
Regards,
Bob
Wow, that turned out great. Awesome idea and thanks for the video!!
Thank you,
Regards,
Bob
Amazing looking pen! Simple idea can lead to unexpected and beautiful things.
Well done
Thank you,
The designs are unlimited and my brain is filled with ideas.
Regards,
Bob
I think you are on to something Bob. Turned out really nice.
Thank you Jay,
I hope to make many more of these.
Regards,
Bob
It's amazing how the final pattern came out. Nice job!
Thank you Ron,
I was blown away when I saw the final pattern.
Regards,
Bob
Fantastic Pen blank Bob . This complicated but simple to make pen blank is outstanding One of the best if Not the best I have seen on the Web Fantastic BoBYou keep coming up with these great Ideas for pen blanks from day to day stuff that every body has laying around Just fantastic
Thank you John,
I have had several PM's wanting to know more about how I made the blank. I'm thinking about a follow up video for the design and assemble process only. No sawing or turning just measuring and drawing out the pattern and any tips I can give to speed the process. That way I can keep it short. What do you think?
Regards,
Bob
RJBWoodTurner Bob It is always good to have a video explaining the layout and the details of the project, though you don't seem to see to many .Go for it, you are good at explaining yourself and a design video would be a great follow up to your great Pen Blank. For something like this blank simple but complicated a power point step by step download maybe an idea as well it is good to have a set of instructions for a project.John
Thank you for the encouragement John.
Regards,
Bob
great ideal and turned out beautiful
Thank you Larry.
Regards,
Bob
Great to see the scroll saw being used in a pen project! Thank You for sharing.
-Steven
+WigWagWorkshop Thank you Steven,
I do love my scroll saw.
Bob
Bob,
That is one awesome pen. When I saw your last pen I wasn't all that impressed with the pattern but seeing this, just WOW. Celtic Knots are one of the coolest things I've ever seen and I think it looks amazing on that pen.
Thank you Robert,
I have another pen in the works if it turns out, I'll have another video. The designs are unlimited.
Regards,
Bob
That is the most beautiful turned pen I have seen made online. I have seen a few rosewood with gold inlay fountain pens that rank up there, but your pen is just beautiful. Congratulations on the design, implementation, and creation of a great writing tool.
Thank you,
Your comment blew me away, thank you so much for that. I deeply appreciate you saying what you did. I am at a loss for words and not really sure how to say thank you.
Regards,
Bob
"Thank you" is more than sufficient. - God Bless
You've done a great job here Bob. I've turned meant Celtic knot pens using 2mm thick aluminium flat bar as an insert, but this takes it in a new direction.
Cheers
Tom
Thank you Tom,
I am having a really good time experimenting with these Aluminum cans. I love the finished look.
Regards,
Bob
Wow. This one is really cool. I can’t wait to get the lathe. Going to a show this weekend
Have a great time.
Regards,
Bob
Definitely going to try this. Great idea.
Thank you Jim,
It is a blast and very addicting.
Regards,
Bob
Absolutely awesome pattern, one for the" I must do this list.. " As always a great video
Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
Amazing! I love the way that pen turned out !!
Thank you Ed,
Regards,
Bob
Just brilliant Bob. I can't wait to try this!
Ian
Thank you Ian,
Regards,
Bob
Awesome job Bob love the design
Thank you Mike.
Regards,
Bob
Bob, this is beyond cool. Saw the question about the glue holding it together or not. While watching, I kept thinking, what a cool lidded box this would make. Will let you know how that works out. Thanks for sharing the idea and method, Fred
Thank you Fred,
I look forward to seeing the box. I have been wanting to start turning boxes but I just keep making pens. :^)
Regards,
Bob
Holy Cats, Bob !!! I liked the Maple pen, But this one is... WOW. Very Well Done Sir.
Thank you very much.
Regards,
Bob
I like the pattern a lot I think you did a great job
+Chad Whittington Thank you Chad.
Bob
Super Job! I wish I could have seen you cut and glue up the other two sides. Keep up the video's.
Thank you,
You will get your wish, I am making a follow up video that shows the making of the blank only. No cutting or turning just all the steps to making this blank. I'm editing it now and it should be out soon.
Regards,
Bob
I've been watching your videos nonstop the last few days and it gave me a great idea. I'm going to try guitar pick strips in place of aluminum or veneer since they come in some awesome colors. I only say this in case you want to try it before I get to it, and I can also see what you come up with if you try it.
I think that’s a great idea. Meet experimenting that’s where the best pens come from.
Regards,
Bob
@@RJBWoodTurner I teach middle school and just assigned about 300 students to come watch some of your videos. Since we are in quarantine they might not be able to make pens, but they can still design them. So I'm hoping you get a lot of likes, because you deserve it.
Paul Mcelligott Thank you Paul. I’m glad I keep the videos family friendly and maybe there’s a future pen turner in your class.
Regards,
Bob
Beautiful pen! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Don.
Regards,
Bob
Absolutely beautiful, thank you for posting. I'll definitely be attempting this
Thank you Sherlock.
Regards,
Bob
that one really turned out truly amazing, I can't wait to see what else you come up with using this can-inlay technique.
Thank you Matthew,
I have another in the works if it turns out. There will be a video.
Regards,
Bob
Very cool! Always fun to watch.
Thank you Jared.
Regards,
Bob
beautiful pen
I am loving it
Thank you.
Wow, that is crazy cool Bob! Home run on that one.
+Roger Ratze Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
that is really cool!! very inventive.
Thank you,
I appreciate the comment.
Regards,
Bob
Impressive. I am currently starting to look at making a Celtic Knot pen myself. I was thinking of cutting up a plastic card. I usually take my cans to be recycled but I think I can maybe use a few to make a pen. Thanks.
I say go for it! Even if the first batch doesn’t turn out you’ll leant something for another blank down the road.
One thing to remember that I did t know when I first started making Celtic knot blanks, the piece you insert into the cut must equal the thickness of the blade that cut the slot. Otherwise the pattern will be off.
Also, sand the surface of the can, they sometimes have a layer covering them.
Regards,
Bob
@@RJBWoodTurner Thanks for the tip 👍
That's a good job Bob.
Best Wishes, Brendan.
Thank you Brendan.
This is a blast to do. I have many more designs planned. I can't wait to try them all out.
Regards,
Bob
Love your pen. Ive tried 2 pens. 1st on not too great but 2nd better. Found I have to be more careful cutting pattern. Will try again soon. Thanks. Steve
+Steve Budge Thank you Steve.
Regards,
Bob
Wow, wow wow. That is amazing. Cheers! --Chris.
Thank you Chris,
I can't wait to experiment with some other design ideas I have in mind.
Regards,
Bob
I can't believe this Rob! Last week I was going to make a pen with alloy strips in it and then I saw your video covering the same method. This weekend I have been working on a Celtic pen and you posted this one Lol Great minds think alike huh?
I must admit though my Celtic pen is not quite as amazing as this one but I will still post the video when its finished. anyway :-)
All the best my friend.
Tony
Thank you Tony,
I need a video for next week, what do you have on to your mind this week. :^)
I can't wait to see your video, I always love what you do.
Regards,
Bob
Really Cool Bob!
Thank you Dan,
It really turns a plain blank into a looker.
Regards,
Bob
Congratulations bob not only are you hooked on pens but on segmentation too now. As for the paint on the cans would it not be easy enough to scrap off with a stanley knife blade, I don't know as it's still on my tuit list. Another great video an lovely pen thanks
Thank you John,
I'm not really sure how the paint on the cans will effect the pens ofer time. I think sanding it off with an Emory cloth for the pens where it doesn't show may be the best option.
I have several designs where I want the cans to show. I'm not sure what to do about those except let time tell.
And your right, I'm hooked. :^)
Regards,
Bob
Regards,
Bob
Love it! Now I want to go play with my lathe and drink a can of pop!
Do it man,
You won't be disappointed.
Regards,
Bob
i really like this keep up the good work!
Thank you.
Where can you get thin flexible brass. I've segmented with copper but I think it is too thick to conform to tight turns. Thanks again for your adventures in pen making
+Steve Budge I'd try eBay. When I can't get it at the hobby store, I can usually find it there. I was able to buy it at Michaels locally.
Bob
Really cool not sure I would have given this idea away
+Barry Fields Thank you Barry,
I wasn't going to at first but I figured if I showed a photo someone else would figure it out. This way, I have a time date stamped video proving I made it.
Regards,
Bob
I have done several Celtic knot pens like this one. On some I have had a problem with the knots not completely forming. Sometimes they only form well on one or two sides. I enjoy the Celtic knots and will try your next idea of one large knot on each half of the blank. Any suggestions?
+Steve Budge I have found that I get better knots when I alternate sides. In the video, I didn't do that.
Regards,
Bob
Stunning.
Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
Fantastic! I like it!
Thank you Steve.
Regards,
Bob
Very nice. Are you concerned about the longevity of the CA bond? How about the ultimate strength- like what if you had the pen in your back pocket, and sat down-? This gives me something to shoot for. Thanks for posting!
Thank you Dan,
I am always concerned with the longevity of the pens I make. I want the recipient to enjoy them for many years.
I do know that C/A is very rigid when dry and can be hard on tools. I hope that rigidity transfers to the rest of the blank. Truthfully, I think only time will tell how they hold up. I plan to use one on a daily basis and I am rather hard on my pens so I may have a more realistic answer at some point in the future.
Do you have any info on the life span of C/A?
Regards,
Bob
That is one stunning pen Bob.
Did you repeat cutting the "V" shape on all four sides? I didn't quite get what was taking place for the video.
Please excuse me................ I'm old. JimE
Hello Jim,
Yes I did repeat the cut on all four sides. I have had so many questions about that that I'm going to do a video on just making the blank which will go into detail on how I made it.
Regards,
Bob
Beautiful pen. How did the aluminum cut on the scroll saw? Was it very noticeable on the last couple of cuts on the scroll saw with that much aluminum in the blank?
Not really David,
I could tell it was there but the blades cut right through it.
Regards,
Bob
Bob, just had an idea after watching another turner's video with acrylic. I enjoy making my own acrylic blanks and the video I saw showed how to pour acrylic "ribbons". The ribbons were thin enough to become pliable after curing when applying a little heat. Since you have mixed materials in previous blanks, have you considered using an acrylic ribbon with a wood blank instead of a soda can? Would there be adhesion issues with these two completely different materials?
That is an incredible idea! I'm not sure about adhesion issues but I know a guy who makes ribbon blanks and I'm going to send him a note as ask if he'll sell me just the ribbons for a test. If he will, there will be a video and we'll test the adhesion.
Thank you, this is a really good idea.
Regards,
Bob
Wow! Fantastic!
Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
thats is awesome ... I really have to get on the lathe more... (and get some new chisels) and do more turning in general
This was fun and relatively easy. I hope you do start turning a bit more. I find it very enjoyable.
Regards,
Bob
A fantastic pen, how good is the glue joint between the aluminium and the woo, and what type of glue did you use?
Hello Kjell,
I used Medium C/A glue. I always use C/A when I'm experimenting due to time constraints but I would recommend epoxy for its better hold.
Regards,
Bob
Oh wow Bob that pen is fantastic. A real piece of art. Brilliant technique.
How does the aluminium hold up to all the glujng?
I need to try this.
Cheers
Bob
Thank you Bob,
I have had no issues with the Aluminum. I'm not sure about cans in the UK but in the U.S., they are extremely thin and form very easily to the pattern of the blank.
You definitely need to try this, you will love it and the materials to make it are dirt cheap.
Regards,
Bob
Bob, I’ve just kitten into pen making and trying to recreate your creations. What scroll saw do you have? My 30 year old craftsman is not up to the task of cutting the blanks. Thanks for your videos!
Hello Gordon,
I use a Dewalt 788.
looks great!
Thank you very much.
Regards,
Bob
That was amazing. I just finished watching another celtic knot design video, but they showed the final project. I was dying to know what it looked like before it was turned down to final size and you delivered. Thank you, sir, I can't wait to give this a try.
Your welcome Troy,
I'm very happy that you found my video useful.
Regards,
Bob
WOW! I don't blame you for keeping this one for yourself!
What blade did you use on the scroll saw that allowed you to cut through the aluminium?
Thank you Tyler,
I used an Olsen 2/0 Crown Tooth blade. It cut with no problem but each blade was only good for one blank. They were shot after that.
Regards,
Bob
What a neat looking pen! I would keep it too. Lol. Did you use CA glue or gorilla glue to glue the parts together? I don't think you mentioned it in the video if you did I've forgot. Lol. Great video. How much could a pen like this sell for?
Thank you,
I used C/A to glue everything up. I'd probably ask between $25 and $30 for a slim line version and more for more expensive kits.
Regards,
Bob
RJBWoodTurner Wow. Not half bad. I like that it didn't cost that much too. Just an aluminum can and some wood.
These are extremely inexpensive to make from a cost stand point. It's the labor, they are a bit time consuming. If you could batch them out, that would be a huge plus. Everyone I've showed them to loves them because their different and they especially like them if their made from their favorite soda.
Regards,
Bob
RJBWoodTurner Yeah that is true. Mostly labor and a little bit of materials. Haha. They might even turn into a collectors piece with the favorite soda can inside. Ha.
amazing that turn great
Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
Hi! I must say i like what you do. Your pens are realy nice. Have you ever tried to turn a pen in leather or birchbark?
Thank you Bo,
I haven't tried either of those materials but I would love to. Leather is probably more available to me so I'll add that to my ideas list.
Regards,
Bob
I have done 2 previous Celtic knot pens with aluminum. (Like yours). I just turned a similar pen - Purple Heart with brass. It turn out great except the wood near the brass is burned ....... looks like it got hot.. am I turning it too fast or does brass get hotter than aluminum? Any suggestions?. Love your site. Steve B
+Steve Budge Hello Steve,
My guess would be that the Brass is conducting the heat and probably keeping it from dissipating.
Bob
Very nice. Inspiring.
Thank you very much.
Regards,
Bob
Nice Pen👍
I have a Ryobi scroll saw from big box store. What blade size would you recomend? Thanks Love your vids!!!
I use a 2/0 blade.
Regards,
Bob
@@RJBWoodTurner Thanks Bob
Im lost for words... Wow
Thank you Willem,
This is so fun and easy to do and the pens look so amazing. I'm having a blast.
Regards,
Bob
This pen came out looking really, really cool. I think that it is fantastic.
Have you considered turning stacked pieces of leather and making a pen out of that? You would probably have to harden them beforehand with some sort of resin.
What about some sort of stacked pattern for the aluminum?
Thank you,
I don't have any leather but I was thinking about slacking other materials.
Regards,
Bob
RJBWoodTurner Do you mean so that the end grain is perpendicular to the pen?
Sorry Jar Jar, I'm not sure what your asking.
Regards,
Bob
Most of the pen blanks I think have the grain going up and down the pen, in the same direction as the brass tubes (I might be wrong about this). I was asking if you meant you would be stacking them so that the grain of the pieces would be going with the brass tubes.
Oh,
I was thinking about alternative materials, possible fabrics, etc. most probably wouldn't have any grain.
Regards,
Bob
Rookie question. I am new to using the scroll saw. How did you turn the blank 45° on the saw and still keep such a narrow cut? I'm worried I'll cut through or, worse yet, end up cutting a groove they creates a gap.
Hello Chris,
I used a 2:0 Crown tooth blade their very thin and allow me to make sharp turns. The Aluminum wears them out fast so it's about one blade per blank.
I just finished version 2 of the soda can pen. It has one knot on each section of the pen.
Regards,
Bob
+3a3j 6bun Nice idea,
Will you let me know how this works out for you, if it helps, I might be interested in making one for my saw.
Regards,
Bob
Hi Bob first thank you for the podcast
Do you remember the measurements between the lines as I’ve tried twice but still don’t work out like yours
The squares were 1/2” wide down the blank.
Regards,
Bob
@@RJBWoodTurner thank you Bob have a super safe day with your family 👍🏻👍🏻
Gorgeous pen! Did you use a template to set the same pattern on all four sides?
Throughly enjoy your work, especially your adventures into concept pens. Pens that provide the rest of us a new project idea.
+Bama Breeze Hello,
I didn't technically have a template but
I did draw boxes around the blank with my ruler to keep it as symmetrical as I could. If you were to make a large number of these blanks a template would be a great idea.
Bob
RJBWoodTurner
I'm most definitely going to turn one like your masterpiece. Thank you and keep making shavings!
+Bama Breeze Here's a link to the video where I showed how to make the blank:
ua-cam.com/video/_Pi0EC1CZ7o/v-deo.html
Regards,
Bob
Excellent and stunning but please wear golves. CA on your fingers looks uncomfortable. Do you find the overlap from the can can be obvious on the finished pen? If so how is that made less noticable? Having the space between the ends and center band to be perfectly even is also great and skill is needed there.
Hello Joe,
You can see the overlap of the two pieces of Aluminum but you really have to look for them.
To help with the gaps between the cap, nib, and center band, I use a carbide barrel trimmer. It gives a nice tight alignment and really enhances the finished look of the pen.
Regards,
Bob
wow, very nice!
Thank you Mark,
Regards,
Bob
That TURNED out really nice...
Are the colors showing though?
If so..... you should try the cola wars suggestion I made...
On this one, you don't see much of the colors. On the other one I'm working on with curves you do. I am making a Mt. Dew and Sprite mix for a friend. If it looks cool, I will locate a Pepsi can and make one.
Regards,
Bob
really great gives inspiration to experiment
+Michael Peddle Thank you Michael.
Regards,
Bob
Fantastic!
Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
I'm wondering if you can find some copper sheeting that is about the thickness of the aluminum can and use it instead, perhaps with a darker wood. Might be a nice contrast.
Hello Aaron,
I was told places like Hobby Lobby sold thin copper sheets. I think it would work just as well and look amazing.
Regards,
Bob
RJBWoodTurner Well, I don't have wood turning equipment or supplies, if you decide to turn the copper let me know how she turns out. I'd be interested to see it.
I made a note on my ideas log. If my Hoppy Lobby has it, I'll make a pen and a video.
Regards,
Bob
Really different Great work Thanks
Thank you Robert
Regards,
Bob
why would you not mark all four sides opposed to one side at a time. It'll be some time before I can get to my shop to do this but I was wondering why you did one side at a time. Great results from an experiment.
Jerry,
That was the way I was taught to make Celtic knots. I have had some great dialogue with several woodturners who are far more experienced than me since this video went live and have had explained to me that doing opposite sides enhances the proportionality of the knot. As I move forward, I will be attempting the opposite side method as opposed to what I did in this video.
Regards,
Bob
I actually thought you would use different lines because you are adding to the thickness of the blank with the aluminum. But you use the same lines around the gerth. Guess the change is too small to notice. Have you ever seen someone else do this???
Sorry Jerry,
I misunderstood your question. I used the same lines because I felt like the difference between the blade thickness, an Olsen 2/0 Crown Tooth, and the thickness of the Aluminum were negligible.
If I were using a thicker or thinner veneer, I would have redrawn the lines and adjusted up or down on the blank to accommodate.
Also, I was free handing the cuts so I knew they would be no where near as perfect as a good jig would make.
I have never seen anyone cutting a blank this way. I have heard of people who use Aluminum as a veneer but have also never seen a pen made with that method. I love Using my scroll saw as much as I love my lathe and I was looking for a way to use both of them to make a pen. This is the result of some free time experimenting in the shop.
Regards,
Bob
RJBWoodTurner understood. thanks
That's an awesome pen, how much do you charge for one of those?
Thank you Jimmy,
This new YT tool is showing me all the comments I missed over the years. Apologies for not responding sooner.
I hope you're still watching and enjoying my videos.
If you haven't checked out the channel for a while, please stop by and see some of the newer videos.
I've made a bunch of the over the years.
Regards,
Bob
Bob, have you filmed the process of cutting the soda can to size and gluing the aluminum to the wooden blanks? I would like to see how you do that part of it. Is the metal soft enough to push it into the pattern you've cut into the wood? Thanks!
Hello Rick,
I used a Dremel tool with a fiberglass cut off wheel to remove the top and bottom of the can then just split it with tin snips. I probably could have use tin snips on the top and bottom too I guess.
The aluminum strips are super flexible and molded right to the cuts. I did place them in dry and clamp the wood to form the basic shape before adding the glue.
Regards,
Bob
RJBWoodTurner Bob, I did view the cutting of the coke can and wondered how the aluminum pieces were fit into the blanks. Thanks for the quick answer. I see that you used your scroll saw to make the cuts once the blanks were ready and looks like they did the job. Thanks again! Rick
Hello Rick,
The scroll saw did a great job, I was using a 2/0 Crown Tooth blade from Olden. One blank pretty much destroyed a blade. I would recommend a thicker blade. I used what I had.
+RJBWoodTurner Bob, I made a blank today, following your method. I must say that you make this look easy, and that's a compliment to your skills! My scroll saw doesn't hold a straight line very well, so my end result does not look nearly as neat as yours does. And, what a mess! I ended up using 5 minute epoxy because CA glue didn't hold well enough. It's very tedious to cut 4 sides of the blank and then glue and clamp and dry each time, and it took some hours to get 'er done. I'm ready to turn the pen, but I need to get a proper pen kit first. My blank is too short for a Slimline, so I'll probably get a Wall Street II pen kit and see how it turns out. I'm looking forward to finishing it. The next time you use this method how about trying RC for blue, 7 Up for Green, and some other color coke can for the last side and see how it turns out? I'll get back to you later as to how my pen turned out. Rick
I hate that you had so much trouble. Please do send me a photo once you finish the pen. I will try mixing cans, I have done Dr. Pepper and Sprite together and it turned out really nice.
Regards,
Bob
Just wondering if there are any concerns with the small flecks of the can getting into your eyes or are they so small its not an issue. Want to try this, looks so cool.
Should always wear eye protection, even better is a full face shield. Pens aren't to bad about coming apart, but it does happen. Bowls and other projects on the other hand, can come out and a shield helps greatly. Happy turning
Excellent concern Kylie,
I wear a full face shield and have my shop vac running. Hopefully what one doesn't stop the other will.
I always wear a shield because I worry about small flying debris with every turning I do.
Regards,
Bob
Ditto David,
Excellent response. I always wear mine.
Regards,
Bob
Very nice. Where did you get the pen's mechanism?
+telosfd Thank you,
I purchased it from Penn State Industries, www.pennstateind.com.
Regards,
Bob
Thanks a lot Bob!
GoOoOoOod job ,
Hi Mr BoB I am from france is that possible to give me the name of website to buy the wood and micanism of pens please
+elisa Jouvin
www.pennstateindustries.com
www.woodturningz.com
www.packardsupply.com
www.woodcraft.com
Best regards,
Bob
Double Awesome 👍
Thank you William.
Regards,
Bob
So, to be clear, did you cut and glue the blank 4 times?
Thank you Steve,
This new YT tool is showing me all the comments I missed over the years. Apologies for not responding sooner.
I hope you're still watching and enjoying my videos.
If you haven't checked out the channel for a while, please stop by and see some of the newer videos.
I've made a bunch of the over the years.
Regards,
Bob
Great pen what glue did you use ?
+Mick Jones Thank you Mick,
I used Insta Bond Medium C/A. I would recommend Epoxy if you have the time to allow it to dry.
Regards,
Bob
How long total did it take you to create the blank before you turned it?
Hello Carla,
Probably about an hour.
Regards,
Bob