I get asked a lot about what tools I use to turn wood pens, rings, bottle stoppers, bowls, and other items.  I thought to help others, I would create a page featuring links to the things I use.

burl cigar wood pens

Lathes

I use a lathe to spin my wood pens and other projects.  Currently, I use a benchtop lathe but if I can sell enough products, I'm very much looking forward to upgrading to a stand-alone unit.  What has worked for me so far is something like this:  https://amzn.to/2CnY1PS

jack daniels wood pens

Pen Mandrels

A pen mandrel is mounted to a lathe and creates a stable environment for turning small objects. I use a pen mandrel for my wood pens as well as ring turning.  there are a variety of types available but if you find one that fits your lathe, you're pretty set for success.    This is the exact pen mandrel I use and I love it.  https://amzn.to/36KEjM4

purple hourglass acrylic wood pen

Tools

I made myself a wooden tool handle out of purpleheart wood and built my own carbide tool.  This is the cutting edge, like a chisel, that helps me craft my wood pens.  You can use HSS (high-speed steel) tools, but they must be sharpened frequently.  The edge on my carbide tools lasts a lot longer.  Here is a link to show you the types of tools I use for making my wood pens:  https://amzn.to/2p1njQE

red acrylic wood pen

Pen Kits

I get pen kits from a variety of sources.  But to start, my wood pens were mostly slimline style.  If you are starting out, too, you can get a 10 pack of slimline pen kits for under $30!  Check this link to see what I mean:  https://amzn.to/2PYav8C

blue diamond cast cigar wood pen