Pen Turning Tools

[Jimmy Powell]

Hello to all. I am new to this forum and also to wood turning. I have been reading and watching videos to add to my knowledge of this craft. I hope to have a shop up and running in a couple of months. I would therefore like to request advice for all the experience available in this forum.

What is the opinion of turning pens with "Mini" tools.

Thanks in advance for your assistance in this matter.

Jimmy Powell

 

[Richard Coers]

Jimmy,
I consider them a waste of money. Regular size tools seem more natural and I am more comfortable using them. The best site on the web for penturning is The International Association for Penturners. I am also hosting a penturners gathering in Bloomington, IL on April 26 and 27, 2012. So far I am posting info on the IAP but will soon be posting information on our local AAW chapter's website. Central IL Woodturners.

 

[Greg Keddy]

Buy full sized tools. They are more comfortable and versatile than the smaller ones. Pen turning is a good starting point to turning, but you will soon find yourself branching out into other types of spindles and vessels where full sized tools will be more useful. IMHO you should buy the best you can afford because it will generally make your turning experience more enjoyable.

 

[Jimmy Powell]

Thanks

Thank you all for the input.

Jimmy Powell

 

[Dean Center]

Once the woodturning itch really strikes, making pens soon ceases to be an adequate scratch. Better to be prepared for wherever this takes you.

 

[Jimmy Powell]

Agreed

Thanks that is what my bank account is worried about.