I am new to pen turning and I sure appreciate you posting this video. You handled this great and i agree, blank needed stabilized . Im picking up a vacuum pump setup and pressure pump next week . Absolutely Gorgeous pen, very inspiring . Looks like agate or tiger eye. Wonderful job, thanks.
Thank you Steve, Only reason I didn’t stabilize the blank is because I don’t have a vacuum chamber to do that type of work. Hopefully I’ll get one this year. Regards, Bob
I want to thank you for CA Thin application to saturate the pin blank before final turning to size. I turned a Black Ash Burl and it filled all the crevices and came out great.
I think that this is going to become one of my "trademark" pens because I think that it combines the best of the two materials. The organic look of the wood, etc, and the bright, pleasing appearance of the resin come together to make a very attractive pen. I think that maybe putting some epoxy on it, and then maybe put it in a vacuum chamber to draw it into the grain might help it become strong enough to not chip out so much. I think that a carbide tool may be a better choice for the turning part of this, but as I am new at this, is based wholly on a "hunch" and not actual experience. I am super-grateful for these gentlemen who post these videos because it is like having a mentor right there walking me through the process. I am really pleased to have found this hobby, and have been enjoying it immensely.
Thank you Daniel, The main reason this blank is chippy is due to the cross grain. A vacuum chamber would help a bit but you’re still cutting against the grain which is always sketchy. Bear in mind that Carbide tools are Extremely aggressive, a much better tool for this type of turning would be a skew. Either way it’s a fun turn and very rewarding when finished. Regards, Bob
Sorry, I know it was difficult To understand me. Becaus the corrector. Your done à beautiful stylo. Where You buy the buffing weels and stuf to apply on it? Be bless , shalom
Awesome job mate. I cringed in pain when you had the second blow-out. I just felt it was going to happen; don't know why. This usually happens to me when I am doing the last bit of chisel work. With me, I have many chipped out "muck-ups" that I show proudly on a piece of string in my shop. I often look at this collection which reminds me to be careful. Take care, Dave Winch, Beachmere Australia
Isn’t it a gut wrenching feeling when on that “one last turn”, when you say to yourself I shouldn’t do this but I’m gonna do it anyway........she blows out!! I have observed that with these blanks in particular and also other fragile ones that blow outs occur 99% of the on the ends. Prior to lathe turning I will belt sand all sharp line angles especially circumferentially on the ends approximating the tube, but also being very careful. I will immediately treat the ends with CA. Just prior to completion I will also at times finish up to the bushing with sand paper. I can’t remember the last blowout or severe chip I’ve had even with very, very fragile blanks. Thank you for another great video Bob..... Dr Bob
That is a stunning pen and I love the fact that you always keep at it. I myself have had issues turning end grain but for me it was carbide tools that solved the issue more specifically the round carbide tool.
Perseverance for the win! I have had some luck with end-grain blanks by coating the inside of the blank with thin CA right after drilling (before the pen tube is installed). Allow it to soak in and cure then re-drill to make sure the hole is the correct size for the tube. I can't say it has been a 100% fix, but my success rate climbed considerably.
Wish this video was around when I first attempted the herringbone pen blank like you had done, to be a Christmas gift for my mom. I used purple heart and paduk and it was absolutely beautiful, then when I went to drill it for the tube the blank just shattered as soon as I touched the drill bit to it. Glued it back and the same kept happening till i was left with a peice maybe two inches long, needless to say I was devastated. I had waited a few days between glueing and attempting to drill it to ensure the glue was cured each time too. Now this next part I really hope helps someone out. About a week later I attempted the pen blank again, same wood choice and glue. The glue up was pretty uneventful. Only thing I did different was instead of going straight for the size hole I needed for the tube I started smaller a smaller and worked my way up to the size needed without any blowouts. Those didn't start happening till I got turning, luckily most of it was stuff that was coming off anyways, had a couple small pieces to glue back but nothing major as I had started soaking the blank in the thin CA. Though I did manage to both glue a bushing to the blank and then later on to the mandrel... I don't recommend doing that lol But the pen blank made it through and my mom got a beautiful pen on Christmas day! I was also able to turn the first blank into a stylus for her phone, so at least it didn't completely go to waste lol
That is a great story and I love your problem solving to make the pen a reality. I’m sure people will benefit from this because they read the comments all the time for ideas. Thank you for sharing. Regards, Bob
Well worth the challenge! One of my favorites that you have done. Your videos are the reason I'll be turning pens soon. Just ordered my kits, press and some blanks. I'll be making blanks soon (practice first).
Beautiful work Bob, I was recently asked to turn a pen from a branch from a tree with sentimental value that came down a few years back in a storm. It looked like the sort of stick you'd throw for a dog to fetch and was even more horrible once I'd cleaned it up. I soaked it with CA the way you did with this one and it turned out okay, I feel justified now having seen you do it like this! I continue to learn so much from your videos, you really inspire me, thanks!
Really nice. I'm taking notes with the same pen !! Hey, I was watching a Barry Gross video and he was suggesting that chipouts are caused by the blank not being glued to the tube at that point. Your soaking the inside of the drilled blank makes good sense. That is the last 1/16th in that is left on the tube after turning. Thumbs up from me.
I like to give my bushings a wipe with paste wax before using them as I find that I stops CA sticking to them . I hope this helps. Fantastic pen, well worth the effort!
i love your videos. I was cringing when it blew up the second time. In between your 1st and 2nd application of CA on the first blank is where I would have finished it with an 80 or 100 grain sandpaper. I also have trepidation with end grain and other kinds of similar wood so when I feel it get close I finish it with sandpaper. It may not be the perfect option but it works for me
Hi Bob - cool blank - It looks like your non-stick bushings are a little shiny like they might have a little buildup of CA on them - I use the "official" ones and soak them in Acetone after each use and they come out just like new. Great video, very educational as usual. Thanks - Dave
Bob, great pen, A suggestion, if you have a Harbor Freight store near you, look at their sales add and they often have a 4 inch Magnetic Parts Holder ($1.99) or at no cost you just have to buy another item. I got one and put it on my lathe and because it has a magnet on it I put my bushings in it anytime I remove them from the lathe. That way I can always find them while I'm working with them.
And I thought I use a lot of CA... I found a long time ago that whenever a blank is mostly end grain or has the pith, as these did, it is better to stabilize it before turning. A little more work, but almost guaranteed success.
Way to power through it Bob. That is a spectacular pen. Maybe you should check into stabilizing the end grain blanks with cactus juice. That would probably end your end grain blues. I think I've seen Zac Higgins do it. Thanks for sharing.
Great work as always Bob and it’s great to see that all perseverance paid off with a gorgeous pen! I think I would have chickened out and broken out the 80 grit gouge on that one!
That is a great looking pen. I have read some of the other comments and am wondering how do you stabilize a blank before turning. I am still new to all of this.
Stabilization is done in a vacuum chamber. You place the blank Into a container submerged in cactus juice. Then, Pull a vacuum and hold it for a while, sometimes several hours until the bubbles stop coming out of it. Once thy bubbles stop, leave the blank in the cactus juice for a time equal to the time you held a vacuum. Lastly, you bake the blank to ensure it is dry all way through. Regards, Bob
Glad you were able to get one done, star in your book. Lol great job color not so great would have done black pen instead of chrome but thats me. Like I said great job brother
Gorgeous! CA has such poor sheer strength. If it's not a standard wood blank with no cuts of inlays I've gone to an overnight cure of epoxy or Gorilla glue even though it goes against my instant gratification ADHD thing. You spend sooo much time on them it's heartbreaking when it self destructs.
Have you tried using a negative rake scraper/bed an to finish it once it is round? I either use a negative rake scraper/bed an or a negative rake carbide tool to do some acrylics or end grain blanks... There are several different negative rake carbide blades out within the last year or so and the work really. Especially if the tool the carbide blade is mounted to allows you to angle/tilt the carbide so you can take a slicing cut such as the WoodPeckers brand carbide tools... The pen turned out great! May I ask where you got the pen press used in this video? I have been looking for one like it for some time as they seem faster than the style I have which requires adjusting the rod depth in or out every time the pen size is different. Thanks Ron
Are you using your oven to heat the pen blank after gluing and inserting the brass tube? I have found that solves many of the problems of wood peeling from the tube. It might help you.
Very nice job and beautiful pen! I agree with the other commenters tho. It would have gone much smother if you stabilized it first. I just started stabilizing blanks with a very budget setup. I use a clear 4" pvc pipe with a removable plug on the top and the intake on my air compressor to provide the vacuum. Not ideal but it works very well.
19:30 Bob don't you have a tube reamer? I have the one from Harbor Freight and it helps clear any CA on the ends but it also removes any burrs that can get in your way.
Great job Bob and @Penblank Manufaktur. I'm so glad you stuck with it. I'm no expert but I wonder if the problems may have been reduced if the blank had been stabalised prior to filling the cracks with the resin. Cheers, Ben
Thank you Jordan, I wish I could answer that question but I’ve never used a negative rake scraper. I’d love to try one out and see if it does reduce catches. Regards, Bob
@@RJBWoodTurner in my experience, the negative rake cutters are great for more sensitive materials prone to chip outs. Definitely recommend for acrylics and more difficult woods
Thanks for this Bob :) I just cut a few end grain blanks from a log of spalted but stable log of Horse Chestnut and I didn't know if it was worth doing, but after seeing your finished result I'm glad I did. Is the Chatoyance due to it being end grain? ॐ
End grain is tough but it makes a beautiful pen. I have had better luck using a bowl gouge. They are designed to cut end grain. I still use thin CA like you did. I have some cedar end grain pens that are out of this world, and cedar is a soft wood.
Just wondering did you have problems just with breaking on the ends if that’s the case you might beable to use the CA just on about a half inch on both sides so you won’t have to use to much CA just a suggestion.
Another great video Bob. This what I want to learn the most, how to be different. I had a quick question for you or Lynn if he watching. I picked up the PSI 12” yesterday, is it possible to put the on a cart with wheels? Or would it be unsafe
I think it could be done, only thing I’d worry about is vibration moving the cart. Maybe wheels where you could lift one side of the cart and roll it on the other like a wheel barrow. Regards, Bob
Wow! What a beauty that turned out to be...looks a lot like Tiger's Eye quartz gemstone. Have you ever worked with the Cactus Juice type chemicals for stabilizing blanks before turning?
Hey Bob, I am ready to turn some antler pens and I seen your clamp system you made or bought for your table saw. Do you have any info on how I can make or buy one? Thanks
Stabilizing may have helped a bit but this was a tough one because it’s also end grain. Even if stabilized, end grain is tough to turn but it would have been interesting to have it stabilized and see the result.
Bob, have you had any trouble with CA finishing on unstabilized wood? I did some pens in Spalted Maple I had and now about a year later the finish is cracking. Thanks!
Rather than adding Ca from the outside in try drilling the blank and filling the blank for the tube and the before you glue in the tube cover one end with tape and then fill the hole with thin Ca and let it soak in. Then re-drill for the tube and go from there.
God that pen is beautiful, I would love to have one. I want to learn how to turn pens. I do not have a lathe yet, but I am working toward getting one. Is there a inexpensive lathe you can recommend for a new turner? I am not a woodworking newby, just a turning newby.
Bob, I cringed when I saw the blow out. I seldom can locate the piece when it happens to me and when I do it's usually incomplete. A lil trick I use to get the piece to seat well (when I can find it) is to use a zip tie as a clamp. Usually the glue that's oozed out binds the zip tie but I just turn it off. I like the thin CA soak technique, kind of a poor mans quick and dirty stabilizing technique. Gonna keep that in in my back pocket. Thanks for all the great videos.
Very nice pen blank you turned, everything you turn is awesome and showing us your steps helps me lots. by the way, how does that lathe compare to the harbor freight, besides the variable speed
Bob, I’m a novice pen turner and have learned a lot from your videos. Thank you! Question, have you tried wood hardener in the past in lieu of CA for end grain or brittle wood blanks? I’m contemplating trying it out.
Beautiful pen! End grains are definitely a pain. You did help me a while back with my end grain African teak. If you would like a few of them, to keep your luck going, let me know, would be more than willing to send them.
Great job! I learned probably more about troubleshooting and thinking through an issue more than anything else. Does Andy Haas own stock in a tin CA factory?
Good morning from Ga. so Bob, is this your full time job or just your hobbie? I'm a retired veteran and I am wondering if maybe you are able to connect and give me some advice on how to make this wood turning into a profitable business. thanks.
Hello Thomas, I have a full time job as well as several school aged kids who are involved in everything, LOL. I turn as a way to destress and relax. I’d be happy to talk with you but I’m not very profitable at this. Regards, Bob
Talk about holding my breathe...I love your determination and even keel approach to your turning.
Thank you Stephanie. 😃
Regards,
Bob
One of the things that I really like about your videos is that you show how you get around setbacks. Very informative as usual!
Thank you John,
Regards,
Bob
Thank you for showing your accidents, it gives me hope.
The pen looks awesome.
Thank you Mark,
Regards,
Bob
I feel the struggle with problems like this... thank you for showing I am not alone
Thank you,
This is an older video but I still have that pen.
Regards,
Bob
you do awesome turnings and also are not afraid to show the errors that can happen
Thank you Steven,
I try to keep things real life.
Regards,
Bob
I am new to pen turning and I sure appreciate you posting this video. You handled this great and i agree, blank needed stabilized . Im picking up a vacuum pump setup and pressure pump next week . Absolutely Gorgeous pen, very inspiring . Looks like agate or tiger eye. Wonderful job, thanks.
Thank you,
Stabilizing will make turning soft, rotted, and difficult woods much easier. Have fun my friend, it should be a blast.
Regards,
Bob
It is a awesome pen. And I am a little bit proud of our work. Many thanks Bob.
Thank you,
I’m very proud of both of us.
Regards,
Bob
Good job Bob. You didn't let Mr. Murphy beat you! I agree with David that stabilizing the blank will help a lot.
Thank you Steve,
Only reason I didn’t stabilize the blank is because I don’t have a vacuum chamber to do that type of work. Hopefully I’ll get one this year.
Regards,
Bob
I want to thank you for CA Thin application to saturate the pin blank before final turning to size. I turned a Black Ash Burl and it filled all the crevices and came out great.
Thank you Joel,
I’m very happy you were able to get that Black Ash Burl turned.
Regards,
Bob
I think that this is going to become one of my "trademark" pens because I think that it combines the best of the two materials. The organic look of the wood, etc, and the bright, pleasing appearance of the resin come together to make a very attractive pen. I think that maybe putting some epoxy on it, and then maybe put it in a vacuum chamber to draw it into the grain might help it become strong enough to not chip out so much. I think that a carbide tool may be a better choice for the turning part of this, but as I am new at this, is based wholly on a "hunch" and not actual experience. I am super-grateful for these gentlemen who post these videos because it is like having a mentor right there walking me through the process. I am really pleased to have found this hobby, and have been enjoying it immensely.
Thank you Daniel,
The main reason this blank is chippy is due to the cross grain. A vacuum chamber would help a bit but you’re still cutting against the grain which is always sketchy.
Bear in mind that Carbide tools are Extremely aggressive, a much better tool for this type of turning would be a skew.
Either way it’s a fun turn and very rewarding when finished.
Regards,
Bob
I have always had good luck with stabilizing end grain pieces before turning. Thanks for sharing! The pen is beautiful!
I’m hoping to get into stabilizing once I get over the damage I did with the kit less pen tools.
Regards,
Bob
Persistence pays off! Beautiful looking pen and excellent explanation of your process to make it happen.
Thank you Todd.
Regards,
Bob
The end result was a gorgeous blank making a gorgeous pen Bob! As always, great video to watch.
Thank you very much.
Regards,
Bob
Vraiment un très beau stylo. A vert beautiful stylo. Chère il y vue tour buffing réels andcstuf tonapply on or. Je blessé, shalom
Sorry, I know it was difficult To understand me. Becaus the corrector. Your done à beautiful stylo. Where You buy the buffing weels and stuf to apply on it? Be bless , shalom
Great looking pen and blank. What a challenge. Well done Bob.
Thank you Dennis.
Regards
Bob
Nice recovery on the 2nd blank, Bob. Looks great!
Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
Awesome job mate. I cringed in pain when you had the second blow-out. I just felt it was going to happen; don't know why. This usually happens to me when I am doing the last bit of chisel work. With me, I have many chipped out "muck-ups" that I show proudly on a piece of string in my shop. I often look at this collection which reminds me to be careful. Take care, Dave Winch, Beachmere Australia
Thank you David,
That is a good idea and reminder to use a light touch especially on the one last pass. 😃
Regards,
Bob
Sensational pen, that blank looked good before turning. 👍👍👍
Thank you Douglas.
Regards,
Bob
That was painful to watch. Never seen someone have a hard time like that but u pushed thru it and made an incredibly gorgeous pen. Awesome job man!
Thank you Jennifer.
Regards,
Bob
Beautiful blank and pen Bob.Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Kwstas.
Regards,
Bob
Isn’t it a gut wrenching feeling when on that “one last turn”, when you say to yourself I shouldn’t do this but I’m gonna do it anyway........she blows out!! I have observed that with these blanks in particular and also other fragile ones that blow outs occur 99% of the on the ends. Prior to lathe turning I will belt sand all sharp line angles especially circumferentially on the ends approximating the tube, but also being very careful. I will immediately treat the ends with CA. Just prior to completion I will also at times finish up to the bushing with sand paper. I can’t remember the last blowout or severe chip I’ve had even with very, very fragile blanks. Thank you for another great video Bob..... Dr Bob
Thank you Robert.
Regards,
Bob
That is a stunning pen and I love the fact that you always keep at it. I myself have had issues turning end grain but for me it was carbide tools that solved the issue more specifically the round carbide tool.
Thank you Ben,
The challenge is half the fun.
Regards,
Bob
I like the fact that you also show the failures. Good thing the curse is gone! And nice pen there in the end.
Thank you Leon.
Regards,
Bob
Perseverance for the win! I have had some luck with end-grain blanks by coating the inside of the blank with thin CA right after drilling (before the pen tube is installed). Allow it to soak in and cure then re-drill to make sure the hole is the correct size for the tube. I can't say it has been a 100% fix, but my success rate climbed considerably.
LOL that is what I get for commenting before the end of the video... Good Job!
LOL, great minds think alike.
Regards,
Bob
Wish this video was around when I first attempted the herringbone pen blank like you had done, to be a Christmas gift for my mom. I used purple heart and paduk and it was absolutely beautiful, then when I went to drill it for the tube the blank just shattered as soon as I touched the drill bit to it. Glued it back and the same kept happening till i was left with a peice maybe two inches long, needless to say I was devastated. I had waited a few days between glueing and attempting to drill it to ensure the glue was cured each time too.
Now this next part I really hope helps someone out.
About a week later I attempted the pen blank again, same wood choice and glue. The glue up was pretty uneventful. Only thing I did different was instead of going straight for the size hole I needed for the tube I started smaller a smaller and worked my way up to the size needed without any blowouts. Those didn't start happening till I got turning, luckily most of it was stuff that was coming off anyways, had a couple small pieces to glue back but nothing major as I had started soaking the blank in the thin CA. Though I did manage to both glue a bushing to the blank and then later on to the mandrel... I don't recommend doing that lol
But the pen blank made it through and my mom got a beautiful pen on Christmas day!
I was also able to turn the first blank into a stylus for her phone, so at least it didn't completely go to waste lol
That is a great story and I love your problem solving to make the pen a reality. I’m sure people will benefit from this because they read the comments all the time for ideas. Thank you for sharing.
Regards,
Bob
Well worth the challenge! One of my favorites that you have done. Your videos are the reason I'll be turning pens soon. Just ordered my kits, press and some blanks. I'll be making blanks soon (practice first).
That’s great Richard,
Be sure to send some photos.
Regards,
Bob
RJBWoodTurner turned 3 pens today. Don’t know how to put a picture on here. Thank you for all your videos and instruction!
Your perseverance amazes me Bob. One day I hope to have the same patience and attitude you do. Awesome job!
-Robert
Thank you Robert.
Regards,
Bob
Now that took some determination to turn that pen. Your a good teacher Bob. Great job and an awesome pen.
Thank you Joel,
Regards,
Bob
Beautiful work Bob, I was recently asked to turn a pen from a branch from a tree with sentimental value that came down a few years back in a storm. It looked like the sort of stick you'd throw for a dog to fetch and was even more horrible once I'd cleaned it up. I soaked it with CA the way you did with this one and it turned out okay, I feel justified now having seen you do it like this! I continue to learn so much from your videos, you really inspire me, thanks!
Thank you I really appreciate your comment. Congrats on the pen.
Regards,
Bob
The first one was a pain but the second one is beautiful . Well worth the extra work . Great job .
Thank you Glen,
I’m very happy with this one.
Regards,
Bob
Really nice. I'm taking notes with the same pen !! Hey, I was watching a Barry Gross video and he was suggesting that chipouts are caused by the blank not being glued to the tube at that point. Your soaking the inside of the drilled blank makes good sense. That is the last 1/16th in that is left on the tube after turning. Thumbs up from me.
Thank you Steve.
Regards,
Bob
When turning spunky woods or soft wood for pens I found that if I turn them fat then sand the finish dia, I don't have any problems with break out.
I use to do that but I truly hate sanding, LOL.
Regards,
Bob
RJBWoodTurner that was my idea for the kangaroo leather blank
Love to see those expert hands at work!
Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
I love how you make the same mistakes i make, thank you!
Hello Mary,
It’s the only way to learn. 😀
Regards,
Bob
A fantastic looking pen Bob, you did well, ca soaking those blanks is the safest way to go. 👍👍😍
Thank you Eric.
Regards,
Bob
Wow! What an amazing pen Bob! I've just started getting back into turning pens and have learned a lot from your videos. Thank you for posting them!
Thank you Ryan,
I appreciate that.
I like to give my bushings a wipe with paste wax before using them as I find that I stops CA sticking to them . I hope this helps. Fantastic pen, well worth the effort!
Thank you Andy.
Regards,
Bob
i love your videos. I was cringing when it blew up the second time. In between your 1st and 2nd application of CA on the first blank is where I would have finished it with an 80 or 100 grain sandpaper. I also have trepidation with end grain and other kinds of similar wood so when I feel it get close I finish it with sandpaper. It may not be the perfect option but it works for me
There was a point I thought about doing that but I pressed on, LOL.
Regards,
Bob
RJ on end grain I use a rasp to get most of the wood off then I sand to final shape with 60 grit paper, I love your videos keep it up.
Thank you Jean.
Regards,
Bob
Hi Bob - cool blank - It looks like your non-stick bushings are a little shiny like they might have a little buildup of CA on them - I use the "official" ones and soak them in Acetone after each use and they come out just like new. Great video, very educational as usual. Thanks - Dave
Thank you David,
Periodically, I use the skew on them and that cleans the right off too. I like the Acetone idea.
Regards,
Bob
Beautiful work!!! I've found the blanks I don't want to tackle seem to turn out the best. Keep up the good work!
Thank you Ann,
The tough blanks are always worth the effort.
Regards,
Bob
Bob, great pen, A suggestion, if you have a Harbor Freight store near you, look at their sales add and they often have a 4 inch Magnetic Parts Holder ($1.99) or at no cost you just have to buy another item. I got one and put it on my lathe and because it has a magnet on it I put my bushings in it anytime I remove them from the lathe. That way I can always find them while I'm working with them.
Thank you, that’s a great tip.
Regards,
Bob
Beautiful pen Bob. Never done an end grain turning. Thanks for the video.
Thank you Mike.
Regards,
Bob
Thank-you for the videos and for sharing the good and the bad. I've jotted down many good tips.
Thank you Diane,
We all have issues while turning, I like to show what I doin an effort to help other turners.
Regards,
Bob
And I thought I use a lot of CA... I found a long time ago that whenever a blank is mostly end grain or has the pith, as these did, it is better to stabilize it before turning. A little more work, but almost guaranteed success.
I need to get a vacuum chamber so I can do this in the future.
Regards,
Bob
Way to power through it Bob. That is a spectacular pen. Maybe you should check into stabilizing the end grain blanks with cactus juice. That would probably end your end grain blues. I think I've seen Zac Higgins do it. Thanks for sharing.
Hello David,
I’ve been wanting to start stabilizing but I don’t need to spend any money right now. Kitless pens cleaned my clock.
Regards,
Bob
love your video, I am just starting with my projects and doing my video work. so thank you for this fantastic, you have helped me in so many ways.
All good things come together with perseverance. That is a stunning pen bob phenomenal job. 👍🏻
Thank you Dave.
Regards,
Bob
Great work as always Bob and it’s great to see that all perseverance paid off with a gorgeous pen!
I think I would have chickened out and broken out the 80 grit gouge on that one!
LOL, don’t think I didn’t think about doing that. It’s a great way to go.
Regards,
Bob
I find that if I have to use ca to repair a blank while on the bushings tha a little paste wax on the bushing helps to keep the pen from sticking.
Thank you James.
Regards,
Bob
Really nice pen
Thank you Tracy.
Regards,
Bob
What do you use to record your videos?
I’m buying a lathe in a few weeks and want to do things and record
My iPhone 7
Wow Now that is one of the best. Good Job. Thanks
Thank you Charles.
Regards,
Bob
Thanks for that i was doing the same thing with my blanks
Thank you Diane.
Regards,
Bob
Love your work. good tips
Thank you Stan.
Regards,
Bob
Amazing! I learned a lot from this video! Thanks!
Thank you Jacob.
Regards,
Bob
That is a great looking pen. I have read some of the other comments and am wondering how do you stabilize a blank before turning. I am still new to all of this.
Stabilization is done in a vacuum chamber. You place the blank Into a container submerged in cactus juice. Then, Pull a vacuum and hold it for a while, sometimes several hours until the bubbles stop coming out of it. Once thy bubbles stop, leave the blank in the cactus juice for a time equal to the time you held a vacuum. Lastly, you bake the blank to ensure it is dry all way through.
Regards,
Bob
@@RJBWoodTurner thanks for such a quick response. Thank you.
Glad you were able to get one done, star in your book. Lol great job color not so great would have done black pen instead of chrome but thats me. Like I said great job brother
Thank you.
Refards,
Bob
I thought about taking up a collection to keep you in CA glue, then realized we might not be able to keep up! :) Good video.
LOL,
I do use a ton of C/A.
Regards,
Bob
Gorgeous! CA has such poor sheer strength. If it's not a standard wood blank with no cuts of inlays I've gone to an overnight cure of epoxy or Gorilla glue even though it goes against my instant gratification ADHD thing. You spend sooo much time on them it's heartbreaking when it self destructs.
I agree Andy,
I use C/A for the videos because it’s quick. I use epoxy for the keepers.
Regards
Bob
Very beautiful pen there Bob....
Thank you Robert.
Regards,
Bob
MASHAALLAH khub valo video.......
😃
Have you tried using a negative rake scraper/bed an to finish it once it is round?
I either use a negative rake scraper/bed an or a negative rake carbide tool to do some acrylics or end grain blanks... There are several different negative rake carbide blades out within the last year or so and the work really. Especially if the tool the carbide blade is mounted to allows you to angle/tilt the carbide so you can take a slicing cut such as the WoodPeckers brand carbide tools...
The pen turned out great! May I ask where you got the pen press used in this video? I have been looking for one like it for some time as they seem faster than the style I have which requires adjusting the rod depth in or out every time the pen size is different. Thanks
Ron
I got that press at Amazon, here’s t he link:
Milescraft Pen Press - amzn.to/32zjn8Z
Regards,
Bob
Are you using your oven to heat the pen blank after gluing and inserting the brass tube? I have found that solves many of the problems of wood peeling from the tube. It might help you.
I never even thought about trying that. Its a very Interesting idea so I need yo test it out. Thank you for suggesting it.
Regards,
Bob
Very nice job and beautiful pen! I agree with the other commenters tho. It would have gone much smother if you stabilized it first. I just started stabilizing blanks with a very budget setup. I use a clear 4" pvc pipe with a removable plug on the top and the intake on my air compressor to provide the vacuum. Not ideal but it works very well.
Cool idea on the compressor Intake.
Regards,
Bob
I would love to know more about how to set this up. Can you point me in the direction for more details please?
As my friend Bob says... "Use CA like someone else is paying for it"! Gorgeous pen there sir!!
LOL, that’s the truth.
Regards,
Bob.
Tough when it blows out. Just a thought maybe if you used epoxy to glue in the tubes that might help hold the blank together.
I have since switched to epoxy.
Beautiful pen. Worth all the hassle in the end...
Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
hi Bob, Hi all, could I know what finishing products you are using ? Many thanks and well done
I’ll make a list and ad it to the video description. I will reply here when the list had been added.
Regards,
Bob
Thanks you Bob
That is real nice I love to attempt Making this
Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
19:30 Bob don't you have a tube reamer? I have the one from Harbor Freight and it helps clear any CA on the ends but it also removes any burrs that can get in your way.
I do have one Cliff,
I just got it and I keep forgetting to use it, LOL.
Regards,
Bob
nice save Bob
Thank you Jimmie.
Regards,
Bob
have you ever thought about using a skew to turn them i never use the spindle roughing gouge as i find it to agresive
cheers ian
I use one from time to time, I just enjoy the control I get with the gouge.
Regards,
Bob
Great job Bob and @Penblank Manufaktur. I'm so glad you stuck with it.
I'm no expert but I wonder if the problems may have been reduced if the blank had been stabalised prior to filling the cracks with the resin.
Cheers,
Ben
That would have helped, I don’t have a vacuum chamber yet. It’s on my list. It would have made this blank almost impossible to blow up.
Regards,
Bob
Seems, that blank needed to be stabilized. Also, I have had better luck using bowl gouges on fragile pen blanks.
Thank you Mark.
Love your videos! Would a negative rake carbide tip tool help avoid catches? Asking for a friend...
Thank you Jordan,
I wish I could answer that question but I’ve never used a negative rake scraper. I’d love to try one out and see if it does reduce catches.
Regards,
Bob
@@RJBWoodTurner in my experience, the negative rake cutters are great for more sensitive materials prone to chip outs. Definitely recommend for acrylics and more difficult woods
Thanks for this Bob :) I just cut a few end grain blanks from a log of spalted but stable log of Horse Chestnut and I didn't know if it was worth doing, but after seeing your finished result I'm glad I did. Is the Chatoyance due to it being end grain? ॐ
Thank you, o Want to turn more now that I’ve figured it out.
Regards,
Bob
Supper good job.
Thank you Stan.
Regards,
Bob
What if instead of soaking it in CA you stabilize the blank before turning. Would CA be more effective in avoiding blowing up chips?
Stabilizing will work for the wood portion but not the resin. I do not own stabilizing equipment so I had to go with what I had.
Regards,
Bob
@@RJBWoodTurner that makes sense. Tricky cut. Beautiful work tho. Thanks for sharing
Add CA glue as you are turning it down. Just keep stopping and adding the thin CA
Thanks Dale.
Regards,
Bob
End grain is tough but it makes a beautiful pen. I have had better luck using a bowl gouge. They are designed to cut end grain.
I still use thin CA like you did. I have some cedar end grain pens that are out of this world, and cedar is a soft wood.
I need to get my bowl gouge back out and finish shaping the end. I always forget about it.
Regards,
Bob
Just wondering did you have problems just with breaking on the ends if that’s the case you might beable to use the CA just on about a half inch on both sides so you won’t have to use to much CA just a suggestion.
Thank you Gary.
Regards,
Bob
Another great video Bob. This what I want to learn the most, how to be different. I had a quick question for you or Lynn if he watching. I picked up the PSI 12” yesterday, is it possible to put the on a cart with wheels? Or would it be unsafe
I think it could be done, only thing I’d worry about is vibration moving the cart. Maybe wheels where you could lift one side of the cart and roll it on the other like a wheel barrow.
Regards,
Bob
Wow! What a beauty that turned out to be...looks a lot like Tiger's Eye quartz gemstone. Have you ever worked with the Cactus Juice type chemicals for stabilizing blanks before turning?
Hello Christopher,
I haven’t done any stabilizing yet. Hopefully soon.
Regards,
Bob
Hey Bob, I am ready to turn some antler pens and I seen your clamp system you made or bought for your table saw. Do you have any info on how I can make or buy one? Thanks
I hope this video helps:
Small Stock Jointing Sled
ua-cam.com/video/BuVgm9z-Zb8/v-deo.html
Regards,
Bob
In helping to solve your issues with the bushings sticking to your end grain turning, have you considered Teflon bushings ?
Thank you John.
Regards,
Bob
apparently the wood was not stabilized..that help so much as it permeates the wood and help to solidify the wood that has been hybrid blank made
Stabilizing may have helped a bit but this was a tough one because it’s also end grain. Even if stabilized, end grain is tough to turn but it would have been interesting to have it stabilized and see the result.
Bob, have you had any trouble with CA finishing on unstabilized wood? I did some pens in Spalted Maple I had and now about a year later the finish is cracking. Thanks!
I only have trouble if I use Activator. I avoid it if at all possible. Wood moves to much and quick cure is brittle.
Regards,
Bob
Rather than adding Ca from the outside in try drilling the blank and filling the blank for the tube and the before you glue in the tube cover one end with tape and then fill the hole with thin Ca and let it soak in. Then re-drill for the tube and go from there.
I did that on the second blank. I didn’t use tape but it worked great.
Regards,
Bob
God that pen is beautiful, I would love to have one. I want to learn how to turn pens. I do not have a lathe yet, but I am working toward getting one. Is there a inexpensive lathe you can recommend for a new turner? I am not a woodworking newby, just a turning newby.
I’m liking the Turn Crafters. They seem solid for the money.
Regards
Bob
RJBWoodTurner, I appreciate it. I will look into that. Thank you.
Bob, I cringed when I saw the blow out. I seldom can locate the piece when it happens to me and when I do it's usually incomplete. A lil trick I use to get the piece to seat well (when I can find it) is to use a zip tie as a clamp. Usually the glue that's oozed out binds the zip tie but I just turn it off. I like the thin CA soak technique, kind of a poor mans quick and dirty stabilizing technique. Gonna keep that in in my back pocket. Thanks for all the great videos.
Thank you Steve, that zip tie is a good idea.
Regards,
Bob
Very nice pen blank you turned, everything you turn is awesome and showing us your steps helps me lots.
by the way, how does that lathe compare to the harbor freight, besides the variable speed
Thank you,
This is a Cadillac compared to a Yogo. I love this lathe.
Regards,
Bob
Bob, I’m a novice pen turner and have learned a lot from your videos. Thank you! Question, have you tried wood hardener in the past in lieu of CA for end grain or brittle wood blanks? I’m contemplating trying it out.
Hello John,
I have not. Have you? If you have, I’d love the hear about your results.
Beautiful pen! End grains are definitely a pain. You did help me a while back with my end grain African teak. If you would like a few of them, to keep your luck going, let me know, would be more than willing to send them.
Thank you Evan,
I’d love to try a few. Thank you.
Regards,
Bob
RJBWoodTurner sounds good, I'll send you an email soon.
Great job! I learned probably more about troubleshooting and thinking through an issue more than anything else. Does Andy Haas own stock in a tin CA factory?
Thank you Dave,
LOL, if he doesn’t, he should.
Regards,
Bob
Great looking pen BOB!!
Do you think wood hardner would help with end grain?
I’m sure it wouldn’t hurt.
Regards,
Bob
What an amazing pen, turned out really gorgeous, and what have you done to your finger?. Thanks bob, take care
LOL, I bumped the knuckle against my sander. Nothing bad, just didn’t want to get it full of saw dust.
Regards,
Bob
how about using a chissel and Cut instead of scraping, im sure it would reduce that tear outs a lot.
Thank you Carsten.
Regards,
Bob
You should get a stabilizing vacuum chamber. If you stabilized that blank it probably would have held together a little better.
Eventually I will, just can’t afford it at the moment.
Regards,
Bob
ZMaybe a skew chisel would have been better. it. Planes the shavings off! The gouge 'knocks' them off! I'm a great fan of the skew!
Thank you Phillip.
Good morning from Ga. so Bob, is this your full time job or just your hobbie? I'm a retired veteran and I am wondering if maybe you are able to connect and give me some advice on how to make this wood turning into a profitable business. thanks.
Hello Thomas,
I have a full time job as well as several school aged kids who are involved in everything, LOL. I turn as a way to destress and relax. I’d be happy to talk with you but I’m not very profitable at this.
Regards,
Bob
Hi, have you a store?I'm interesting for some of Your penso, Very very nice
Thank you but I do not have a store.
Regards,
Bob
@@RJBWoodTurner ok, i'd like them, a very good Job on The late
Way to conquer end grain Bob. The pen looks awesome. How the heck do you get all the CA off of your fingers? Great video.
Thank you Jeff,
LOL, it just wears off.
Regards,
Bob