How to Turn a Twist Turn Pen on a Lathe

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Mark the length of each brass tube.Be sure to add a little extra for inaccurate cutting and the kerf of the saw blade.

   This material has a random pattern that is more forgiving than the grain in some woods, but it is good practice to make a habit of this. , Mark the centres on the matching ends of the two pieces so that the holes are not offset from each other or it will throw the pattern out and the two parts will not match. ,, Use liquid superglue as it provides the best holding strength and is quick acting. , Here the brass tube is quite a lot shorter than the acrylic outer. , Drill enough so that the brass tube has been cut to reveal clean shiny brass. , Bushings are also available for most pen kits to aid in turning the pen to the correct outside diameter.
   
   Any means of holding the brass tube on the lathe will suffice; here the tube is held in place between centres by two pieces of steel bar stepped down in diameter so that they enter the brass tube and support it on their shoulders.
   
   The two images show the difference between sanded (600 grit) and polished finishes.
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   Step 2: Make sure you keep the pattern running through the two pieces so that the final pen has a consistent pattern.

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   Step 3: Use a wood drill bit to drill holes through the length of the two pieces.

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   Step 4: Use a medium grade abrasive to scratch the brass tubes in order for the glue to find purchase.

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   Step 5: Glue the brass tubes into the blanks

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   Step 6: making sure you push them in from the matching ends.

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   Step 7: The acrylic must be at least the same length as the brass tube.

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   Step 8: Use a barrel trimmer to clean out any glue that may have entered the brass tube

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   Step 9: and to trim the material from the end of the piece down to the brass tube.

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    Step 10: Pen turning mandrels can be purchased

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    Step 11: which simplify the turning and allow both pieces to be turned at the same time.

Detailed Guide

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