Beginner turner advice

[jussi]

Just picked up my first lathe for $75 (stealth gloat). I've always been jealous by all the great looking pens many of the members turn out here. My question is what's the best way to start considering my immediate goal is to do pens.

The guy I got the lathe from also threw in a bunch of pen blanks, lathe tools, pen vise, mandril (have no I idea what this is for ), and this DP attachment that is supposed to take the blank down to final length.

[Richard in Smithville]

Let me warn you....it's a slippery slope. As good as this forum is, get yourself to a dedicated pen forum. A good one is Pen Turners Paradise.

The mandrel is what you mount your blank to in the lathe. There is a 7mm and an 8mm mandrel( depending on the kit you use) although the 7mm will suit you for most pens.

William Wood-write is a good Canadian supplier. They have starter sets for most kits plus they have delux starter sets for slimline and sierra pens.

[sscherin]

Just pack it all up and mail it to my house..
I'll pay you the $75 and shipping..
Trust me.. I'm doing you a favor..

Sounds like you are all setup.. order up some pen kits, bushing, read the turning forums above and get to turning..


Have fun!

[Uncle Cracker]

First, join this site...

Then, find their search utility, and start searching their archives for any keywords that concern your questions. Your family may not see you for some time...

Then, watch Youtube videos about turning and finishing.

Then, get your feet wet... Keep your first pen, no matter how bad it turns out.

Then, show us the pics... There is no longer any hope for you...

[dkerfoot]

I am going to suggest that you got a great deal but that it is also the most expensive $75 you ever spent. Check back in a year and see if you don't agree.

[chopnhack]

Wow, nice score Jussi, enjoy