Thread Weaving and CNC and ...

[BRobbins629]

Segmenting? Like many here I have been amazed at some of the pen blanks made by thread weaving. Then, JohnT posted this picture.

As I really enjoy patterns, I wanted to see if if could come close with a CNC carved and filled blank. Here's what I came up with. A few defects, but better than many of my first attempts at new designs.

A few years ago, in a challenge, many members tried and eventually came up with a sequence for making 360 degree segmented herringbone blanks in wood. Any takers for this pattern?

Side note: although I did copy this pattern, for those who don't know me, I have not and have no plans to sell any blanks or pens I make.

 

[jttheclockman]

Wow Bruce it looks like this design lends itself to other medium and methods. Would like to have seen a progress view of you taking the blank through the steps using the cnc. As far as segmenting and being somewhat a herringbone pattern, yes I can see it. The cut pieces would have to be angled instead of straight across if i see it right. Would definitely be an interesting challenge. I hope someone takes you up on it.

Good to see people thinking outside the box. Stimulates the mind. Good job.

 

[Charlie_W]

That is way cool Bruce! Keep them coming!

 

[magpens]

I love that pattern !

Not clear on your meaning in your post:

A few years ago, in a challenge, many members tried and eventually came up with a sequence for making 360 degree segmented herringbone blanks in wood. Any takers for this pattern?

Side note: although I did copy this pattern, for those who don't know me, I have not and have no plans to sell any blanks or pens I make.

Is your picture an actual blank you made ? Would you sell it ?

 

[BRobbins629]

I love that pattern !

Not clear on your meaning in your post:

A few years ago, in a challenge, many members tried and eventually came up with a sequence for making 360 degree segmented herringbone blanks in wood. Any takers for this pattern?

Side note: although I did copy this pattern, for those who don't know me, I have not and have no plans to sell any blanks or pens I make.

Is your picture an actual blank you made ? Would you sell it ?

First comment is simply trying to generate interest. Many had fun in similar challenges.

I did make the blank in the bottom picture. The top picture is from another post. I believe someone will soon be offering similar thread weaved ones for sale. Mine is not for sale.

 

[hanau]

i would like to see how you made it.
Do you have a video of making it?
I am debating on getting a 4th axis for my mill just not sure if the Chinese ones are worth playing with.But for the price it may be worth the learning experience.

 

[BRobbins629]

Sorry no video, but here is the sequence.
1. I start with a solid black blank and turn to just proud of final diameter.

2. I then draw the pattern on a space as wide as the blank and as high as the final circumference of the blank. Note that the pattern may go outside the lines but should overlap if I were to cut it out and wrap it around the blank. I then make a separate drawing for each of the other colors - one for white and one for gray that fits the space. From there, I can use software to generate gcode for carving. I use a very fine bit for this and each color takes about 3 hours to carve. A good time for a nap.

3. After carving, I fill the spaces with epoxy on a slow rotating spindle. About 20 rpms. I have also used polymer clay for other patterns.

4. After curing, I turn round again and carve the other color and repeat the fill. Only challenge with more than 2 colors is to be able to set the zero on the CNC the same place every time. If you look close, I missed by a little.

 

[magpens]

Thanks for your explanation of your process.