operation is dependent on having the proper length tubes. This facing operation
can also be done with the proper jig and a disk or belt sander.
Berea Hardwoods
13. Not having the proper tube length is the #2 cause of pencil failure. Sanding, on a
disk sander, using a jig to hold the tube square with the disk, is a more sure way
of getting the proper length. It should be tried if you have any doubt as to your
abilities to square the material with the barrel trimmer.
14. Another good method of squaring the ends of the blank is to turn the blank until it
is just round. Using a miter gauge to maintain the blank perpendicular to the
sanding disk, just touch the ends to the disk. Once the blanks are square and you
can see the ends of the tubes brighten, then return the blanks to the mandrel and
finish the turning until the desired contour is accomplished.
Turning the Blanks
Round To
p
Euro
p
ean Double Twist Pencil
1. Assemble the blanks on the mandrel with the right bushings in the right place.
The right bushing can be found by comparing the diameter of the bushing to the
piece of hardware that will be placed in that place. For instance, the bushing that
is the same size as the clip will fit on the end of the blank that will eventually
become the top of the cap.
2. Tighten the tailstock before tightening the blanks on the mandrel. This will center
the mandrel first. Then tighten the nut that holds the blanks.
3. Turn the blanks to the desired contour making sure that the area next to the
bushing is turned to the size of the adjacent bushing.
4. After turning the blank, sand the surface in progressive steps until you get to 400
or 500 grit.
5. After sanding, stop the lathe and,
6. IF USING METHOD 1- measure 1 25/32” or, to be exact, 1.7895” from the cap
clip end and mark. With a sharp parting tool remove the wood all the way to the
brass tube and all the way to the end of the tube, on the cap center band end. This
will receive the center band of your pencil. Your cap blank should then have 1
13/16” of finished wood and the rest should be bare brass tube.
7. IF USING METHOD 2-Your blanks are finished.
8. If a higher polish finish is desired continue sanding with Micro Mesh through
12000 grit.
9. Apply the finish of your choice and polish.
10. Remove the blanks from the mandrel.
Assembling the Pencil
Please refer to the Pencil Parts diagram
3