Reviews
Book Reviews - "T"
Turning Pens and Pencils – by Kip Christensen & Rex Burningham
I have seen some beautiful wood pens and pencils that have been turned on the lathe. Curious as to the difficulty of making such great writing instruments, I bought this book (and one other, reviewed separately). After reading the book, I think I can say without a doubt that it is well within the capabilities of the average woodworker.
The authors are writing from a position of authority, having turned many, many pens and pencils themselves. In fact, one of the authors works for a company that sells supplies for woodturning and making pens, though there is no self-promotion at all in the book. Both authors are experienced in all sorts of turning, too, not just pens and pencils.
The cost to get started turning pens and pencils isn’t necessarily small, though it can be relatively inexpensive. If you already have a lathe and turning tools, then the additional investment is minimal and only necessary as you get into different styles of pens and pencils. If you would like to make unique writing instruments without the expense of turning equipment, the book even has a brief section about creating pens with polymer clays, although it is not a definitive resource on the method.
A chapter listing will pretty much define the scope of the book:
1) The History of Writing Instruments
2) Getting Started
3) Basic Pens and Pencils in Detail
4) European and American Style Pens
5) Tapered Rollerball and Fountain Pens
6) Style Variations on Basic Pens
7) Alternative Methods of Producing Pens
8) Alternative Materials for Making Pens
9) Tips and Tricks
10) What to do With all These Pens
You will learn what equipment you need to get into this hobby, or profession if that is your intention, as well as the necessary turning techniques. The materials for making pens are also well covered, including traditional wood and materials like Corian, plastics, antler, etc.
You will find that there is a bit of repetition in the instructions for actually turning and assembling the pens and pencils, but that is only because they are being complete. Rather than rely on you to have read the whole book, they repeat the necessary information for each style of pen you can make.
The tips and tricks section is filled with information that will make your efforts more effortless, including jigs and fixtures, as well as helpful techniques. It is a valuable part of the book. If you are intending to sell your pens, the chapter on what to do with all the pens gives ideas on marketing and selling. There are people who actually make a living at this.
I have a hard time believing that there is much more to say on the subject of turning pens and pencils. Once you are familiar with the methods of work described in this book, any new style of pen that comes on the market should easily be made using the same methods. Armed with this book, you will be ready to order your supplies and get turning.
Published by Guild of Master Crafstman Publications- Copyright 1999
163 Pages
Reviewed on April 2, 2011