Laser Cut Pen Kits

One of the many blogs I follow is Buzz Saw by Rockler Woodworking.  In a recent post they announced they are now carrying a wide range of Laser Cut Pen Kits designed for the Sierra style pen.  I was pleasantly surprised to see a very complimentary link to my blog in their posting!  Thanks Rockler.   You can click on the image below to go to the Rockler site and view their line up of laser cut pen kits.

Laser Cut Pen Kits from Rockler

I haven’t made a pen using laser cut kits yet, although I have about a dozen various kits sitting on my workbench waiting for their turn on the to-do list.  I’ve spoken to a couple of pen turners about assembling and turning the kits.  While assembly can be a slow process the results are worth it.   Here are some hints which may help you with assembly.  Please note that these are general hints, the kit you have will probably come with specific instructions.

• Wrap the brass tube with clear tape and insert it in the main body of the blank.  The clear tape will prevent any glue sticking to the tube, while the brass tube will provide support to the blank as you press the inlays in place.
• Mix a 50/50 solution of wood glue and water.  Dip each inlay in this solution and then press the inlay into the main body.
• Once the inlays are all inserted you can wrap the blank with a couple of rubber bands to hold them in place.  You may need to use some rubber bands as you proceed with the inlays.
• After the glue has dried, slide the tube out, remove the tape, rough it with sandpaper and then glue it back in the blank.
• Turning can be done using sharp tools and a light touch, however many people that I’ve spoken with will start with sandpaper until the blank is running true.  Given the cost of the kit and time involved in assembly this is probably not a bad idea!

Another great resource for assembly and turning of these kits can be found in the library of the International Association of Pen Turners.  Just scroll down towards the end of the post and look for a series of videos by Ed Davidson titled Stars and Stripes Pen.

The IAP is an incredible resource for pen turners, I’d highly recommend joining the forum! I’ve been a member for a number of years and have learned a great deal there and made many friends.

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