Pen Kit Suggestions Please

[monkeybiter]

A friend of the family fancies having a go at pen making [of which I know nothing] and Christmas is coming.

Can I buy enough for him to dip his toe by spending up to £30 ?

Once tried he can choose to spend more if he wishes to pursue it, but this is our max pressie budget for him.

Any help will be much appreciated, if it's relevant I'll be at Harrogate on Friday, any bargains anticipated?

 

[CHJ]

More than enough for some basic kits, folks like Axminster often have packs on offer at reduced show prices.

The main consideration for someone starting up is the cost of a mandrel system**, not essential to a competent turner but makes life considerably easier for someone new to the subject.

** If considering this if they don't already have or are purchasing one make sure you quietly research what type, as how it is driven, by taper mandrel or chuck is dependant upon lathe accessories already owned.

 

[Dalboy]

You don't say what type of equipment he already has. If the answer is none then as you know £30 will not even run the tap let alone dip a toe.

The mandrill set up can cost more than the amount allowed. it would be better to find someone who lives close to him that already turns pens and is willing to show him how to and look at the equipment

 

[davem62]

Hi Mike
im in pontefract so if you and your friend would like to see whats needed as regards basic kit and have a go at pen turning your more than welcome to come over,just pm and i will give you my no,
regards david

ps i will be at harrogate on friday also

 

[Teepeg]

Hi Mike
im in pontefract so if you and your friend would like to see whats needed as regards basic kit and have a go at pen turning your more than welcome to come over,just pm and i will give you my no,
regards david

ps i will be at harrogate on friday also

I am just down the road in Knottingley Dave, small world .. :wink:

 

[davem62]

In Knottingley at moment , working nights at ardagh glass , I've only been turning since March last year and am a member of Birstall turning club

 

[monkeybiter]

Thanks for the replies;
Chas .. I think I'll have a see what's available on Friday, have a chat with some of the vendors etc. I know what kit he's got, I've also got an idea of his general abilities........
davem62 .. Thanks for the very generous offer, pm sent.

 

[Teepeg]

In Knottingley at moment , working nights at ardagh glass , I've only been turning since March last year and am a member of Birstall turning club

Something else we have in common .. 8) You don't play golf also do you??

 

[nev]

Evolution mandrel 1MT or 2MT 18.95
5PK everyman (slimline 7mm) pen kits 8.75
bushings 4.50
total: 32.20
all from Turners retreat - maybe they'll be at the show? so no p and p to pay?
plus some bits of wood from your scrap bin

 

[davem62]

Hi teepeg
i did play but stopped about 4 years ago, your initials don't happen to be R.D by any chance?
regards david