Finding precise, repeatable results when squaring and sizing pen blanks is essential for quality pen turning. This guide reviews five highly relevant tools and jigs that aid in squaring blanks, aligning components, and applying even pressure during assembly. Each option is evaluated for compatibility, ease of use, and build quality to help you choose the right setup for your workshop.
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| PSI Woodworking PKBSLED Bandsaw Sled | PSI Woodworking | Accurate sizing and squaring on a bandsaw |
| Sasylvia Exotic Wood Blank Set | Sasylvia | Diverse wood blanks for varied pen styles |
| Penn State Industries PKPPJIG Press Perfect Jig | Penn State Industries | Consistent installation length for 7mm mechanisms |
| Threaded Pen Press Jig | ROCKLER | Even pressure and stable setup for pen parts |
PSI Woodworking PKBSLED Bandsaw Sled for Sizing & Squaring Pen Blanks
The PSI Woodworking PKBSLED Bandsaw Sled is designed to help woodworkers size and square pen blanks with confidence on a bandsaw. This sled rides and locks to the outside of the bandsaw table and accommodates blank stock up to 1″ x 1″. It fits bandsaw tables from 10-1/2″ to 18″ and weighs about 6 lbs, making it a stable choice for accurate cuts. The sled is easy to attach and remove, enabling quick switching between projects. Use it when you need precise length control and square corners for premium-appearing pens.
Key features include a quick pop-on/pop-off design, compatibility with common blank stock sizes, and a robust build that minimizes drift during cutting. While the bandsaw itself is not included, this sled provides a repeatable process for producing square blanks that align with standard pen kits. For hobbyists and small shops, the PKBSLED offers a practical path to cleaner, more consistent pen blanks without requiring a dedicated jointer or drum sander.
Sasylvia 30 Pieces Exotic Wood Blanks Pen Turning Supplies
This Sasylvia set provides 30 wood pen blanks across six species, including olive, sapele, teak, cherry, and merbau. Each blank measures about 5 x 3/4 x 3/4 inches, offering ample material for a range of pen styles. The diverse grains create eye-catching pens, with natural variations ensuring unique results. The blanks are air-dried and crafted for stability, providing a balance of hardness and smoothness suitable for turning. This variety is ideal for beginners building a starter collection and for experienced turners exploring different finishes and effects.
Advantages include a broad selection, reliable hardwood quality, and predictable workability. Potential drawbacks might include color and grain variability between blanks, which can be leveraged creatively but may require more planning. Overall, the Sasylvia set is a convenient way to stock up on blanks that enable distinctive, high-contrast pen designs without sourcing individually from multiple suppliers.
Penn State Industries PKPPJIG Press Perfect Jig for 7mm Cross Style
The Penn State PKPPJIG is designed to solve common issues with 7mm Cross-style pen kits. It addresses problems of inconsistent tube lengths, incorrect mechanism depth, and the need for precise alignment. The jig ensures the mechanism is pressed to the perfect distance within minutes, reducing setup time and rejection rates. It’s compatible with full-size twist pen kits that use a Cross-style refill, making it a versatile tool for those who assemble multiple pen styles. The result is more reliable assembly with less guesswork during installation.
Highlights include time-saving operation, consistent depth control, and straightforward alignment. Users should consider whether their current kits use 7mm Cross-style mechanisms and if they value a dedicated press solution versus manual assembly. This jig is particularly beneficial for shops producing multiple units with standard configurations, where repeatability is critical for efficiency and quality control.
Threaded Pen Press Jig for Even Pressure
The Threaded Pen Press Jig from ROCKLER focuses on applying even pressure during pen assembly. Built from sturdy aluminum with a zinc-coated steel bar, the device provides a stable base and is designed for precise alignment. Features include a clutch mechanism to reduce deflection, a movable clamp head for quick adjustments, and feet with mounting holes for stability. A hang hole allows convenient wall or pegboard storage, keeping the workspace organized while ensuring consistent results when pressing components together.
Considerations include the balance between manual control and mechanical assistance. For some users, the threaded press offers the tactile feedback of manual pressure with the assurance of even distribution, while others may prefer a fully automated or dedicated jig for repeated production runs. This tool is well-suited to makers who frequently assemble slimline or regular pocket pens and value a stable, repeatable pressing process.
Buying Guide
- Purpose and compatibility: Identify whether you mostly size blanks on a bandsaw, assemble components with a press, or need blank stock varieties. Ensure tool compatibility with your pen kit sizes (e.g., 7mm Cross-style, standard tubes).
- Stability and build quality: Look for solid materials (aluminum, steel) and secure mounting. A stable base reduces drift and improves precision during squaring and pressing.
- Ease of use: Quick-release or pop-on designs save time between projects. Check whether the tool requires additional accessories or specific table dimensions.
- Variety vs. specialization: A diverse blank set offers creative options, but dedicated jigs provide repeatable accuracy. If you produce many identical pens, prioritize repeatability.
- Maintenance and storage: Consider ease of cleaning, parts replacement, and whether the tool can be stored compactly or hung for easy access.
- Cost vs. value: Weigh the upfront investment against time saved, inconsistency reduction, and potential waste from misaligned blanks or assemblies.
In summary, the best choice depends on your workflow. A bandsaw squaring sled like the PSI PKBSLED excels in precise blank sizing, while the Penn State PKPPJIG and ROCKLER press jig emphasize consistent assembly depth and even pressure. The Sasylvia blank set complements any pen-making toolkit by expanding material options and enabling varied, eye-catching designs. Combining these tools can create a streamlined process that yields high-quality, repeatable results in modern pen turning.