This is how we do it!
Things have sure changed since I made my first pen many years ago. I still have it as an example of how I have progressed in pen making. My skills and techniques have changed and developed with practice (and more practice) and from guidance and advise by other pen makers. I plan to keep refining my methods and try to produce quality affordable pens.
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Brief slideshow of the process.
This is a partial slideshow of the process. I will be adding more images and maybe even some videos as I get time.
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Turning & Assembly
There are about 50-60+ steps required to make a quality pen. The wood pens require 55-60 steps and the acrylic pens require 60+ steps. I buy quality pen components from specialty suppliers and then assemble these parts with wooden or acrylic barrels that have been turned on the lathe. The end result is a unique pen made from quality components and distinctive hand-crafted barrels. The hardware and visible metal parts come in a variety of plating choices, from the least durable (least expensive) to the most durable (most expensive). I have used all of the plating finishes on various pen styles. The state of the art finishes that provide the lasting beauty one expects with a fine hand-crafted pen are Titanium Nitride, Black Titanium, and Rhodium.(see FAQ - Pen Plating) I buy many species of wood through vendors and sources from all over the world. The wood is cut into small units called ‘pen blanks’ and measure about 6” long. The blanks are then cut to fit the respective pen barrels (upper & lower). A hole is drilled through the blanks, a brass tube is glued in and allowed to cure. The blanks are trimmed and squared to specific lengths and then placed on the lathe for turning to the required diameter and shape for the pen style. After turning, the barrels are sanded from 220 grit to 12,000 grit for a smooth finish. The barrels are then polished and / or buffed to produce the desired durability, polish and shine. All the component parts, (barrels, nibs, clips, transmission, trim rings) now come together for hand assembly. After assembly, the pen may receive a final coat of Renaissance wax. This is a very high quality wax that protects the components from fingerprints and has a soft luster. |
Detailed images and descriptions coming to this area in the future.
You know, these things take time. :) |