Hello from North Dakota!

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swissmiz54

Member
Joined
Jan 8, 2025
Messages
1
Location
Leeds, ND
I recently retired after 30+ years as an elementary teacher. I began turning pens a few years back when my sons bought me a mini lathe. I took a pen turning class at a Woodcraft store and loved it. I have gifted more pens than I have sold! I am always looking for tips to help me improve.
 
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Hello and Welcome from Utah Barb!

Thanks for everything you have done for the kids for 30+ years. Just my opinion, nobody is more deserving of retirement than our teachers! Isn't gifting pens is the best?
 
Welcome from a retired teacher in Texas! Turning pens was my stress relief after a day of teaching! Always fun to come home from work & go to the shop for a couple of hours turning pens!
 
Welcome !
Best tip I have for anyone starting out is to use carbide chisels, if you don't already. Easier to use and less chance of catching and destroying your blanks. Welcome to the forum
 
Welcome Barb. I think most people here give away more than we sell because we like making them for various reasons: Stress relief, creativity etc. Don't be afraid to ask questions; IAP is a question friendly forum.

Here is a link that has many many posts of pen picts from people on this forum that may interest you in your future creations:
 
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Hello - and welcome from NJ! Stress relief is how many of us got into this hobby, including me! go to the shop twisted up and come back smiling and holding something nice you made an hour later! How can you go wrong!

My only suggestion is one of patience - things will take time to get right. Don't rush, it will come. Start out with some basic things and then work on refinements. Lots of good places to look for suggestions - YouTube can be your friend with this, just be sure to follow safe practices, as there are a lot of good and not so good workers making pens. You might also want to find a local AAW chapter near you - great place to learn.

Kevin
 
Welcome to IAP. We usually give away more pens than we sell. Thanks and I consider how you influenced the lives of the kids.
My wife retired in 2017 after 32 years in preschool education; last few years were as school director. I couldn't handle that.
 
Welcome along Barb

I admire your dedication to teaching.

As you know you are never too old to start learning new things. Have fun and stay safe.

Joining a local club will make the journey easier and more social .
 
Hello and welcome! I'm from Valley City originally and live in the Phoenix area now. I just recently retired myself. Turned a little years ago and now have time for more fun. This site is amazing with amazing people ready and willing to help with any questions you may have. Go Vikings!
 
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