Pen Turning Blanks

[Fireburst]

Hi, I have a range of exotic wood offcuts that I am going to turn into pen blanks to sell. I do not turn pens so could someone give me an idea of the most popular dimensions?

I notice 20x20x150mm seems popular but are other sizes in demand?

 

[Phil Pascoe]

Personally I'd cut to 18mm x 18mm x 120mm.

20mm² seems to me to be wasteful, and even a 12.5mm tube will fit in 18mm². 150mm often leaves an offcut that's no use for much. Maybe 165mm would be better than 150mm, it would make three Sierras or similar or two parts of a two part pen and one Sierra. My opinions, of course. If you're not a member of the pen turners forum I could post the question there for you for more experienced, informed answers.

 

[Fireburst]

That would be very helpful thankyou.

 

[Phil Pascoe]

The Pen Turner's Forum. I've posted it under "optimum sizes for wooden blanks" . You can probably read it without signing up, but I'll relay any info. if you can't.

 

[Chief Sawdust Maker]

I turn a fair few light pulls so may be interested in some a bit larger than pen blanks. What species have you got?

 

[Fireburst]

Thanks, Phil

 

[Fireburst]

Hi Darren,

I currently have some Spalted Beech, Purple Heart, Zebrano and Wenge. I have some other bits in my bin but not sorted through yet. Let me know if you have anything specific you would like.

 

[Fireburst]

I can't see the pen turning forum listed? Is it invite only?

 

[Phil Pascoe]

https://penturners.co.uk/

 

[Fireburst]

Thanks

 

[Ed Weber]

I would just cut the wood to the best optimal square size, then determine if it could be cut shorter to get more than one usable blank.
Other than pens, there are dozens of small turning projects that utilize the size wood blank you described.

 

[Paul Hannaby]

You could just sell the offcuts as they are and let the buyer decide how to cut them up