Input needed to beginner's wish list

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Loon-A-See

Member
Joined
May 25, 2013
Messages
26
Location
Camano Island, WA
Hi Gang!

I'm a neophyte turner and I have Multiple Sclerosis. I am looking to supplement my Social Security Disability Insurance by selling high-quality, hand-crafted pens. I'm really fortunate that I am being helped by the State of Washington's Dept. of Vocational Rehabilitation. So, with the help of DVR and YOU, THE AMERICAN TAXPAYER (God bless you, one-and-all!), I will receive a shop, equipment, supplies and classes in turning.

I've been researching this endeavor for more than a year. Having MS limits me in many ways, so I have to work at my own pace, which is first gear. I finally have a list of equipment, and I would appreciate your input on what I've selected.

I have several suppliers from which I would like to buy pen kits and blanks, however, I have not included them here, as there are so many! I would like to get a feel for the different woods. At the same time, there are so many acrylics, amalgam-mutts, polyesters, and rhinoplastics, too! I'm supposing that each has its own properties for turning?

As for a shed, I have the choice of ordering one from Lowe's or Home Depot or there is a business, here on the island, which builds custom sheds. I'm in favor of that and am checking on the prices. I would like to have it wired and insulated (so it does not sweat.) It has been recommended that I get one 8'x10'-12', which will just fit in my small yard (landlord approved.)

OK, thanks for all your help! Look forward to receiving your comments! And thanks for paying your taxes!:cool:

Sincerely,
Maria aka Loon-A-See

GRIZZLY:
5-Speed Baby Bench-Top Drill Press G7942 $99.95 $99.95 Micro Pen-Turning Tools, set of 3, by Robert Sorby H9080 $91.95 $91.95 Combo Sander 4"x36" Belt/6" Disc G0547 $129.95 $129.95 26" Maple 12-Drawer Tool Chest H7718 $175.00 $175.00 14" Deluxe Bandsaw G0555LANV $445.00 $445.00 Shop Fox Tool Table x 2 G7313 $49.95 $99.90 Peltor North 54001 Full Face Respirator-Medium/Large T23537 $129.95 $129.95 1 HP Light Duty Dust Collector G1163 $169.95 $169.95
WOODCRAFT:
Jet Mini Lathe w/Indexing Head, Variable Speed, Model JML-1014VS 147823 584.99 584.99 WoodRiver Deluxe Self-Centering Vise 151256 89.99 89.99 Turner's Finishing Kit (x 3) 153666 54.99 164.97 Pen Press 142731 49.99 49.99 WoodRiver Universal Pen Tube Insertion Tool 151050 11.99 11.99
 
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Maria; There are several pages in the IAP Wiki that may be of interest.
Pen Making Overview - IAP-Wiki

The library has many fine articles and How-to's.

Finally, check to see if there is a Woodturning club near you. Woodcraft often sponsors clubs, or can put you in touch with a local club. Many woodturners are more than willing to mentor you. AAW can provide a list of affiliated clubs.
 
Not having any of the specific tools mentioned , I would only comment that most of us use regular size turning tools , not minis . Also , I suspect that there are some very nice local materials on your island . It would probably be cheaper to focus on them .
 
Loon-A-See said:
Hi Gang!

I'm a neophyte turner and I have Multiple Sclerosis. I am looking to supplement my Social Security Disability Insurance by selling high-quality, hand-crafted pens. I'm really fortunate that I am being helped by the State of Washington's Dept. of Vocational Rehabilitation. So, with the help of DVR and YOU, THE AMERICAN TAXPAYER (God bless you, one-and-all!), I will receive a shop, equipment, supplies and classes in turning.

I've been researching this endeavor for more than a year. Having MS limits me in many ways, so I have to work at my own pace, which is first gear. I finally have a list of equipment, and I would appreciate your input on what I've selected.

I have several suppliers from which I would like to buy pen kits and blanks, however, I have not included them here, as there are so many! I would like to get a feel for the different woods. At the same time, there are so many acrylics, amalgam-mutts, polyesters, and rhinoplastics, too! I'm supposing that each has its own properties for turning?

As for a shed, I have the choice of ordering one from Lowe's or Home Depot or there is a business, here on the island, which builds custom sheds. I'm in favor of that and am checking on the prices. I would like to have it wired and insulated (so it does not sweat.) It has been recommended that I get one 8'x10'-12', which will just fit in my small yard (landlord approved.)

OK, thanks for all your help! Look forward to receiving your comments! And thanks for paying your taxes!:cool:

Sincerely,
Maria aka Loon-A-See

GRIZZLY:
5-Speed Baby Bench-Top Drill Press G7942 $99.95 $99.95 Micro Pen-Turning Tools, set of 3, by Robert Sorby H9080 $91.95 $91.95 Combo Sander 4"x36" Belt/6" Disc G0547 $129.95 $129.95 26" Maple 12-Drawer Tool Chest H7718 $175.00 $175.00 14" Deluxe Bandsaw G0555LANV $445.00 $445.00 Shop Fox Tool Table x 2 G7313 $49.95 $99.90 Peltor North 54001 Full Face Respirator-Medium/Large T23537 $129.95 $129.95 1 HP Light Duty Dust Collector G1163 $169.95 $169.95
WOODCRAFT:
Jet Mini Lathe w/Indexing Head, Variable Speed, Model JML-1014VS 147823 584.99 584.99 WoodRiver Deluxe Self-Centering Vise 151256 89.99 89.99 Turner's Finishing Kit (x 3) 153666 54.99 164.97 Pen Press 142731 49.99 49.99 WoodRiver Universal Pen Tube Insertion Tool 151050 11.99 11.99
Click to expand...

What are your limitations, if any?? Jim S
 
I think if we knew the budget you've been given, it would be easier to give advice on what to invest in.

I would skip the drill press, drill press vise etc and spend the money on either a dedicated pen blank chuck or nova with pin jaws as well as a Jacobs chuck.

For just pens, I'd buy three good quality tools - spindle (roughing) gouge, skew (I like the oval skew) and a carbide tool. They will likely be more than you ever need.

Bandsaw- 14" floor model if you are planning on processing blanks yourself. Otherwise a 10" would be suitable.
 
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Check out the Easy Wood Tools. They literally eliminate the arduous learning curve associated with traditional tools and practically guarantee successful pen turning.
If pens are going to be your forte, then minis would do very adequately for you and would likely be more suitable relative to the limitations you mentioned. Compare for yourself and the best of luck to you in your endeavor.
 
kooster said:
Check out the Easy Wood Tools. They literally eliminate the arduous learning curve associated with traditional tools and practically guarantee successful pen turning.
If pens are going to be your forte, then minis would do very adequately for you and would likely be more suitable relative to the limitations you mentioned. Compare for yourself and the best of luck to you in your endeavor.
Click to expand...

Good point and possibly something major left out. If you are going to get traditional tools - you'll need a sharpening system. I common choice is a slow speed grinder and wolverine jig. $200 plus easily.

There are some things on your list I'd consider luxuries. Maple tool box. Even dust collector.

Also, don't be expecting to sell pens right off the bat. Wait until you make something worth selling.
 
Hi Dan,

Thanks for your reply.

The State did not give me a $ budget. So, I'm selecting equipment that looks like it's good quality and w/in a reasonable price, when compared the the top of the line. I don't select the cheapest but I do like to get the best I can. Yeah, it's hard w/o a $ figure, however, my caseworker does not really know the equipment either. And besides, it will have to be run by her superiors. So, I'm gathering the data and waiting for them to say yes or no.

As for the tools, Grizzly has a nice set of 3 Sorby tools. I couldn't decide between the 3 from Grizzly or the 5 Sorby tools from Woodcraft.

Woodcraft is about 90' south, in Seattle, near Boeing Field and the stadiums. Grizzly is about 60' north, and a much less congested drive. Grizzly has lots of equipment but the lack the supplies for pen turning (kits, blanks, etc.) So, I figured that I had ought to look at both for equipment, as there are variations between them. Think Global. Buy Local. So, that's what I'm hoping to do, as the WC store in Seattle is a franchise store, not a corporate store. As for Grizzly, the Bellingham store is their flagship store.
 
Well, I think that the State of WA would not agree to the equipment in the thousands of dollars, so I'm sticking with the hundreds.

I know that the shed will be the largest ticket item; I'm estimating $2000-$2500. I hope to have one custom built here, on the island. I would like to have it wired, or at least know what gauge of electrical extension cord to use. It would also be nice to have it insulated so that it won't sweat, and so that I can stay comfortable while in there. Need to pay a visit to the business.
 
Hey, Dan,

Forgot to mention that the Maple chest is a wish. As for the dust collector, I added that b/c of my immune system, although my landlord, who's a finish carpenter, told me that my vacuum should suffice. Just don't want to take any chances, as I've been told that some of the exotic woods are toxic. I'm a whimp, I admit.
 
Loon-A-See said:
Hey, Dan,

Forgot to mention that the Maple chest is a wish. As for the dust collector, I added that b/c of my immune system, although my landlord, who's a finish carpenter, told me that my vacuum should suffice. Just don't want to take any chances, as I've been told that some of the exotic woods are toxic. I'm a whimp, I admit.
Click to expand...

Hey, you can ask for it all, just maybe have a core list for yourself where if your total $ is rejected, you can pull $300-$500 off the total for them.
 
I think you misunderstood my question. " What are your lmitations " I ment any physical problems that you must overcome, not price of equipment. After spending 3 months in a wheelchair, I know there are several things that need to be considered if you want to stay turning and woodworking. Jim S
 
Sorry for misunderstanding. My primary symptom with my "flavor" of MS is FATIGUE, causing me an inability to stay focused. This has been helped by the recent addition of Ritilin (which has the opposite effect in me than in those with A.D.D.)

I also have Depression, Anxiety, balance problems, short-term memory problems. I cannot be too hot, cold, tired, hungry. Definitely NO STRESS! Stress really triggers all these symptoms. Thank God for good Rxs! We've found a way to keep my MS stable.

I also receive a monthly infusion to manage my immune system, much like what they give to those with HIV/AIDS and other autoimmune diseases. Thank God, I receive this 100K treatment for free, thanks to Medicare coverage, as well as grants and charity care from the University of Washington Medical Center, as well as the RX companies.

Everyday is a struggle but attitude is everything! An attitude of gratitude, a spiritual life and A SENSE OF HUMOR about life in general keeps whatever balance I can without becoming despondent. Of course, Rxs and caffeine and chocolate, as well as ice cream and popcorn DEFINITELY have their place! :) At least I'm not in a wheel chair and I can still wipe my own bum! :) LIFE IS GOOD! :)
 
Hi Dan,

Got my budget: $3000, total for shed, equipment and supplies. I need the shed custom-built b/c it needs to be 5'w x 12'l x 6.5' high. It's small but then again, that's about the same size as the bathroomette & kitchenette in my 300 sq. ft. cabin, so I think that is very workable. If I have a built-in workbench of 2', plus a shelf underneath, I should be fine; I will just work up & down the line. So, I'm waiting to hear from DVR about having some buddies custom build it all, for about $1200, leaving me about $1800 for equipment and starter supplies. Stay tuned.... Thanks for your interest & support! Maria
 
You need to get with someone probably a heating and air conditioning person to ensure you building is heated and cooled year round as well as insulated properly

Do not run extension cords for power. The state is giving you this money so you can be successful and safe
 
hi Maria,

the drill press you mention in your OP does not have enough spindle travel to drill through most pen blanks. I learned this lesson the hard way with my Ryobi drill press. the grizzly you named only has 2" of travel.

Mike
 
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