Starting out

[timturner]

So I am not new to turning just turning pens, what is a good kit to start with and want to turn between center to start. Should I use my own wood or use a blank from where I order from.Thanks

 

[KenB259]

Welcome to IAP. I would suggest any of the Sierra or Sierra clones. They are single barrel, easy to turn, easy to assemble and not too expensive. As far as wood goes, you probably want to stick to hardwoods.

 

[timturner]

I am so new, I don't know what a sierra is,a model or a brand? from what company

 

[KenB259]

They go by many names, Gatsby, Manhattan, many other names, I'm sure others will chime in.

 

[timturner]

Thanks I,ll look at PSI or other sites for the names

 

[egnald]

Greetings from Nebraska, Before I retired, Vishay had a plant in Huntington. I think I recall a woodworking store in Fort Wayne that carried pen kits and stuff. I looked online and I think it was called Oak Tree. In any case, they carry the "Gatsby" version of the Sierra style - and I think it is only about a half an hour drive from you.

Also online I see there is an Independent Rockler Reseller in South Bend. It is called Johnson's Workbench, maybe worth a call to see if they stock any penmaking stuff since it is about an hour and a half from you.

And Welcome to the IAP Community. - Dave

 

[pshrynk]

Thanks I,ll look at PSI or other sites for the names

PSI would be a Gatsby. I really love this kit and it can show off hardwoods quite nicely.

 

[timturner]

Egnald,I checked out Oak Tree they do carry pen kits,I think we might drive down their tomrrow,thanks

 

[KenB259]

Greetings from Nebraska, Before I retired, Vishay had a plant in Huntington. I think I recall a woodworking store in Fort Wayne that carried pen kits and stuff. I looked online and I think it was called Oak Tree. In any case, they carry the "Gatsby" version of the Sierra style - and I think it is only about a half an hour drive from you.

Also online I see there is an Independent Rockler Reseller in South Bend. It is called Johnson's Workbench, maybe worth a call to see if they stock any penmaking stuff since it is about an hour and a half from you.

And Welcome to the IAP Community. - Dave

Johnson's Workbench also has a store about 8 miles from my...my favorite store ever. My local one carry's a small amount of pen stuff, but lots of Exotic wood My main wood supplier.

 

[qquake]

I personally like the Gatsby or Gatsby Grande. Because of the "beads", they're a little more forgiving of final diameter than Sierra clones. Gatsby Grande has a slightly larger diameter body, but uses a smaller drill (3/8" vs. 27/64"). So that leaves you with a thicker body. The first one is a Gatsby, the second one is a Gatsby Grande.

Penn State Industries: Product Search

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Penn State Industries: Product Search