I am contemplating starting a journey into pen making. Trying to decide what supplies and equipment would be best to get. I have a few questions I am hoping you experienced penmakers out there can help me with.
First up is what kind of mandrel should I get? I have been looking at the Mandrel Saver from PSI. The concept of it makes sense to me but are there reasons I should get a normal mandrel instead?
Second, where is a good place to get pen making supplies? Not pen blanks but just the kits. I have been looking around at PSI and a few other places. One of the things I want to make is pencil kits. All of PSI's kits use 0.7mm lead and I would rather have 0.5mm lead. I prefer to get all my supplies from one place. Is there a better place to buy from then PSI?
Third is about finishes. What is a good way to finish the pens? I have seen everything from simple polishes to heat activated lacquers to ca glue. I just want a durable finish that will hold up over time whether I give them away as gifts or sell them.
Any other information or suggestions is appreciated.
First up is what kind of mandrel should I get? I have been looking at the Mandrel Saver from PSI. The concept of it makes sense to me but are there reasons I should get a normal mandrel instead?
Second, where is a good place to get pen making supplies? Not pen blanks but just the kits. I have been looking around at PSI and a few other places. One of the things I want to make is pencil kits. All of PSI's kits use 0.7mm lead and I would rather have 0.5mm lead. I prefer to get all my supplies from one place. Is there a better place to buy from then PSI?
Third is about finishes. What is a good way to finish the pens? I have seen everything from simple polishes to heat activated lacquers to ca glue. I just want a durable finish that will hold up over time whether I give them away as gifts or sell them.
Any other information or suggestions is appreciated.