DIY Wooden Pens: How to Turn Them on a Lathe 2026

Handcrafted wooden pens are elegant and beautiful objects. They can be made using a lathe, a technique that offers great creative possibilities and a wide choice of wood essences.

In this article, we talk about how to make wooden pens, highlighting the added value you can bring with creativity and the precautions needed to complete a not-so-simple turning project.

First of all, to make artisan pens, you need to procure the elements normally found in all common bakelite pens, which include: the tip, the cap with clip, the cap end ring, the click mechanism, the refill, and the two brass tubes important for assembling the mechanism and, in turning, useful as a reference for the lengths of the pieces to be turned.

DIY Pens – Which Wood to Choose

The essential part, which essentially makes the wooden pen a unique and unrepeatable piece, is the creation of the barrel and cap (called cap even if on these pens it remains fixed in position). These two components are obtained from magnificent essences of seasoned wood, first making a square-section strip, drilling it axially to insert the brass tube, and finally turning it properly.

To turn such a small piece, achieving the necessary stability and having all the necessary references for the diameters to be obtained, you must use a special mandrel consisting of a rod to pass inside the strips to be turned. The pieces placed in correct sequence are two, the barrel and the cap, and must be interspersed with bushings of the diameter corresponding to the coupling sections with the metal accessories. This way, the reference for the section to be obtained is safe; it's just a matter of skill and a steady hand to reach the measurement by giving a harmonious development to the curvature of each element.

When the wooden pens have acquired their shape, do not remove the pieces from the lathe; instead, proceed immediately with sanding and finishing. For this step, you can use progressively finer grits of sandpaper (from 220 to 600 grit) and then apply a finish such as wax or oil to protect the wood and enhance its natural grain.

Preliminary Phases

Before turning, it is essential to prepare the wood blanks. Cut the seasoned wood into square strips slightly longer than the final piece. Drill a hole exactly in the center using a drill press and a bit matching the diameter of the brass tubes. Glue the brass tubes into the holes with cyanoacrylate or epoxy glue, making sure they are centered. Let the glue cure completely before mounting on the mandrel.

For this stage, having a well-organized workbench and proper lighting can make all the difference in precision.

Turning Wooden Pens on a Lathe

Mount the mandrel with the bushings and blanks on the lathe. Start the lathe at a moderate speed (around 1000-1500 RPM). Use a roughing gouge to bring the blanks to a cylindrical shape, then switch to a spindle gouge or skew chisel to shape the barrel and cap. Work carefully, constantly checking the diameter with the bushings as a guide.

Once the desired shape is achieved, sand the pieces while they still spin on the lathe, starting with coarse grit and moving to fine grit. Then apply a finish—many turners prefer a friction polish like shellac or a CA glue finish for durability. After finishing, remove the mandrel and separate the barrel and cap.

Final Finishing and Assembly

Now it's time to assemble the pen mechanism. Insert the click mechanism into the barrel, then attach the tip. For the cap, insert the clip and the cap end ring. Press-fit the metal components using a pen press or a vice with soft jaws. Finally, insert the refill and test the action.

Your handcrafted wooden pen is now ready. It can be a wonderful gift or a personal treasure. To display your finished pens, consider a stylish display shelf or a bookcase in your office.

FAQ

What type of wood is best for turning pens?

Hardwoods like maple, walnut, cherry, and exotic woods such as cocobolo or rosewood are excellent choices. They are dense, take a fine finish, and have beautiful grain patterns. For outdoor use, consider teak or other weather-resistant woods.

Do I need a special lathe for pen turning?

A mini lathe or a midi lathe is ideal for pen turning. These are compact and precise, perfect for small projects. You can find suitable lathes and accessories online.

How do I prevent the wood from cracking during turning?

Use well-seasoned wood, keep the tools sharp, and avoid taking too heavy cuts. Also, ensure the brass tubes are properly glued and centered. A stable work surface helps reduce vibration.

Can I make pens without a lathe?

While a lathe is the traditional tool, you can shape pens by hand using carving tools, but it's much more difficult to achieve precise symmetry. For beginners, a lathe is highly recommended.

Where can I buy pen turning kits and supplies?

Pen turning kits are available at many woodworking stores. For a wide selection of woodworking tools and supplies, check out GrandGoldman's home improvement collection.

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