Where do you get your pen kits from?

[jussi]

I just started turning pens a couple of weeks ago (actually first time using a lathe). I've only done slim line pens and want to start some cigar pens. Rockler and Woodcraft don't offer a huge selection. Where's a good place to get them?

[Alex Franke]

I just started turning pens a couple of weeks ago (actually first time using a lathe). I've only done slim line pens and want to start some cigar pens. Rockler and Woodcraft don't offer a huge selection. Where's a good place to get them?

This is a very timely question for me, too; I'm also ready to place another order. I'll be paying attention to the answers you get as well.

So far I've ordered from Penn State and Rockler.

[jgrobler]

http://www.woodturnerscatalog.com/
http://www.bereahardwoods.com/

[Richard in Smithville]

I shop at William Woodwrite, basically carries Penn State, Bear Tooth Woods, Wood Pen Pro, Wood Safari.

[Whaler]

Here is my list
1:www.woodturnerscatalog.com
Jr Gents, Jr Statesman, Zen, Venus
2: www.beartoothwoods.com
Sierra EBs
3: www.arizonasilhouette.com
Baron, Sedona, Sierra EBs
4: www.pennstateind.com
Noveau Sceptre

There are other sources as well. Exotic blanks, Lau Lau Woodworks, Wooden Pen Pro and through most you get better pricing than WC and Rock.

[phrog]

Dick, I think that you left out the first "o" in the first link. It should be:
www.woodturnerscatalog.com

I only know this because your link didn't work and then I noticed it.

[Whaler]

Dick, I think that you left out the first "o" in the first link. It should be:
www.woodturnerscatalog.com

I only know this because your link didn't work and then I noticed it.

Thanks Richard, i was still half asleep.

[woodturner]

Where's a good place to get them?

I use Berea Hardwoods. They seem to have the best selection and quality at the best price.

[BigguyZ]

AS (Arizona Silhouette) offers good discount pricing, and has a huge array of stuff. I go there for the slims, or the Biscayne slims (larger center ring, I thiknk a better pen than the std slims). They also have good prices on standard Sierras and Cigars (they used to have chrome cigars for $3.50).

CSUSA (Craft Supplies USA, AKA www.woodturnerscatalog.com) carries the fancier DAYCOM kits- so the Jr Gent II, the Jr Statesman, and the full-size counterparts. Prices aren't bad, but they're not great either. But here's where you can get the higher-end kits.

I don't buy kits at PSI. They're not the type of kits I like (not a fan of the Majestic. I'd be some-what interested in the Broadwell, but they are pricey).

It you like to deal locally, there are several $15 off $50 coupons available for Rockler. So you can purchase just $50 worth, and get 30% off basically. That makes it competative with the websites.

Now of course, you could always go kitless.

[jussi]

Thanks for all the replies guys. I guess I'll be going over a bunch of sites today.