Cheap Pen Turning Lathe

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of lathe Do I need to turn pens?

With so many different types of lathes on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. When it comes to turning pens, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind. First, the size of the lathe.

You'll need something that is small enough to easily maneuver around the pen blank, but large enough to accommodate the length of the blank. Second, you'll want to consider the speed of the lathe. A slower speed is better for beginners, as it will give you more time to work with the material and make sure your cuts are accurate.

Third, think about what kind of power source you prefer- electric or hand-powered? Electric lathes are generally more expensive, but they offer more consistent results and are easier to use for extended periods of time. Hand-powered lathes are less expensive and can be a great option for those just starting out.

Now that you know a little bit more about what to look for in a lathe for turning pens, here are some specific models that we recommend: • The Jet JWL-1015 10"x15" Woodworking Lathe – This lathe has a 1/2 HP motor with 6 speeds ranging from 600-2400 RPMs, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced woodturners alike. It also has an 18" distance between centers (the maximum length your project can be), so it can accommodate most pen blanks without issue.

• The Nova Comet II Variable Speed Mini Lathe – This is a great option if space is limited in your workshop since it's much smaller than other models on the market (just 12"x16"). However, don't let its size fool you- this little machine packs a punch with its 1 HP motor and 6 speed settings from 250-4000 RPMs. It also has an impressive 16 1/2" distance between centers.

• The Shop Fox W1704 1/3 HP Benchtop Wood Lathe – This budget-friendly option has all the features you need for turning pens including 3 different speed settings (700/ 900/ 1100 RPMs), easy height adjustment for the tool rest, and live center tailstock included.

Can you make a pen on a lathe?

Yes, you can make a pen on a lathe. The process is relatively simple and only requires a few tools and materials. First, you'll need to gather a pen blank (the barrel of the pen that will be turned on the lathe), a mandrel (a rod that the blank will be mounted on), and some turning tools (a gouge, skew chisel, and/or parting tool).

You'll also need something to catch the shavings as they come off the blank, like a waste bin or vacuum cleaner. Once you have your supplies gathered, set up your lathe according to the manufacturer's instructions and mount the mandrel in it. Then, mount the pen blank on the mandrel so that it's centered and secure.

Start the lathe spinning at a moderate speed and use your chosen turning tool to shape the barrel of the pen to your liking. As you work, periodically stop the lathe to check your progress and make sure everything is still centered and secure. When you're happy with how your pen looks, turn off the lathe and remove the blank from the mandrel.

Use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges or imperfections before applying finish to protect it from wear-and-tear. Now all that's left to do is assemble everything! Slide the nib into place in its housing inside of barrel of he pen then screw on cap (if applicable).

Your handcrafted woodturning pen is now complete!

How long does it take to turn a wooden pen on a lathe?

Assuming you are asking how long it takes to make a wooden pen on a lathe: The time it takes to make a wooden pen on a lathe can vary depending on the size and complexity of the design. A simple design may only take a few minutes, while a more complex one could take several hours.

What can I use if I don't have a lathe?

If you don't have a lathe, there are still several ways that you can shape wood and other materials. One option is to use a router. Routers come in many different sizes and shapes, so you'll need to find one that's the right size and shape for your project.

Another option is to use a bandsaw. Bandsaws can cut through wood quickly and easily, making them ideal for shaping large pieces of wood. Finally, you can also use a hand saw to cut through wood.

Hand saws are slower than power saws, but they're still able to make precise cuts.