Turning A Pen

Into Pen Turning Perfection

The art and craft of turning a pen really begins with having the desire to create something beautiful and practical. With the correct tools, a steady hand, and patience, I take fine woods and other materials, from being separate pieces, to being a consistent and balanced writing instrument that will be treasured for years.

I begin by carefully selecting the fine woods and other materials. This is a key part of the process. Mankind has used wood-turning techniques for years, creating pen turning items remarkable for beauty and practicality.

I devote time and energy to continuing this tradition when making handmade pens, making sure that the base material is suitable for a quality pen. The pen must then be carefully cut, drilled, and shaped in several specific steps.

A Distinct Process

While woodcrafters now use excellent power tools and lathes to create their finished pieces instead of turning the material by hand, the process still has one goal: bringing the wood, bone, and acrylic to life. The color and pattern of individual pieces should appear naturally as the pen is finished. I think of this as releasing the “inner soul” in the finished piece.

The list of things needed for properly turning a pen includes pen blanks of wood or other material, turning lathe, small vise or clamps, a drill press, and so on. Having a well-equipped shop is only part of the process. People who make handcrafted pens must also develop skills over time, learning from experience and adding personal touches.

Pen-makers can cut their own “blanks” or work with pre-cut pieces. The key step, however, is recognizing that a certain piece has the potential to become a unique, collectable pen. I believe that this ability gives my handmade pens the value and quality that are necessary in a beautiful and usable writing instrument.

After the blank is carefully bored along its length to create a core that's exactly the right size for the pen, the wood or other material must be shaped. Square ends are trimmed before the blank is ready to be turned on the lathe. This detailed process brings the chosen wood, bone, or acrylic to life as a pen barrel.

When the barrel has the desired color and pattern, it’s time for careful sanding and polishing. The pen also must have the right finish to protect it from normal wear and tear. After careful selection of materials and careful turning, this isn't time to hurry the process.

After turning a pen, the pen-maker must then choose just the right parts and pen clips to complete this unique item. Assembled with care, my striking pens stand out from the mass-produced crowd!