Using pen blanks

For discussion of fitting and shaping stems, doing inlays, and any other stem-related topic.
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ebernabe
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Using pen blanks

Post by ebernabe »

Can one use pen blanks for stems? Example: http://www.exoticblanks.com/acrylic-resin-blanks/

Thanks,

Eric
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Jthompson1995
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Re: Using pen blanks

Post by Jthompson1995 »

Yes, you can. Just be sure you know what material they are as there are many different plastics used for pen blanks. I've had the most luck with acrylic. Polyester is usually softer and can be quite brittle.
Anybody can become a woodworker, but only a Craftsmen can hide his mistakes!
-Walter Blodget
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KurtHuhn
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Re: Using pen blanks

Post by KurtHuhn »

Also, some polyesters will pretend to take a bend, but will slowly straighten over time.

--K
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Massis
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Re: Using pen blanks

Post by Massis »

nothing as fun as a full bent suddenly becoming a straight and dumping hot ashes in your face :lol:
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Growley
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Re: Using pen blanks

Post by Growley »

I noticed they had some Ebonite on the site too. Expensive, but kind of pretty. I'm not sure how the quality would compare to what most pipe makers use, but it might be worth a try.
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KurtHuhn
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Re: Using pen blanks

Post by KurtHuhn »

A while back, Dawn over at Exotic blanks told me that they sold SEM rods. Judging by the pics, that looks to still be the case.

--K
Kurt Huhn
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dogcatcher
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Re: Using pen blanks

Post by dogcatcher »

I also a penturner, Exotics has top of the line inventory, only the best. The problem is that it is designed for penturners not pipemakers. I would check what and how it is made and if it can be used for pipes before buying more than a sample to try.
RDPowell
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Re: Using pen blanks

Post by RDPowell »

Massis wrote:nothing as fun as a full bent suddenly becoming a straight and dumping hot ashes in your face :lol:
Now that's funny LOL!
rdpipes.briar.club
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