Pen Lathe
tool training
Duration: 2 hours
Class Size: 3 people
Price: $60
Ages: 16+ (13-15 with guardian)
Ever wanted to make a pen from scratch on a lathe? In this class, you'll learn how to turn a pre-made pen blank kit into a finished, working pen. The Turncrafter Pen Lathe is a great first step into woodturning: small, approachable, and capable of beautiful results.
Each student takes turns at the lathe, practicing the full process from mounting the blanks through shaping, sanding, and pen assembly. As a group, we'll produce one finished pen together during class, which we'll donate to a local organization.
By the end, you'll have learned the complete process to turn a pen blank kit into a finished pen, and you'll be checked out to use the Turncrafter Pen Lathe on your own with a Maker Works membership.
Bonus: Every attendee receives a free day pass to come back and turn their own pen, on us. We'll provide a pen blank kit, you bring your new skills. Valid for 30 days after the class.
The class covers safety, lathe setup, mounting pen blanks on the mandrel, adjusting the tool rest, starting and stopping the lathe, scraping technique with carbide tools, sanding and finishing, and pen assembly with the pen press.
People ages 13-15 may take this tool checkout class with their parent/guardian (both adult and minor must register and pay). A parent/guardian who has taken the checkout class must also accompany them when operating the tool. Ages 16 and up are encouraged to take checkout classes in any area they wish, with parent/guardian approval.