Post Graduate SpectraPly

[qquake2k]

The pen is a Post Graduate from PSI. The blank is a SpectraPly called Blue Angel, from Cousineau Wood Products. I'm not at all happy with how this turned out. A lot of the blue "bled" over to the white during sanding. I tried cleaning the lower body with denatured alcohol, but I think that made it worse. Then I blew off both bodies with compressed air before applying the CA finish. Blowing them off did help the upper body, but not the lower. I'm not sure what I could have done differently. Any ideas?

 

[qquake2k]

You can really see it in these closeups. Not sure I'll turn anymore SpectraPly blanks, unless they don't have any white or light colored layers. This isn't like the old Dymondwood, which was impregnated with resin. It seems that SpectraPly is just laminated.

And the refill tip extends a bit too far. I was careful not to trim the body too much, so not sure what happened there.

 

[qquake2k]

Note to self: Wear gloves when applying CA with paper towel. I've never had to use acetone to remove CA from my skin before, but it seemed to work.

 

[Les ELm]

Nicely done.

Les

 

[fortress]

It's a great shame about the pen Jim. I always place my finger in one of those pen kit bags before I apply CA.

 

[bluntchisel]

Hi, Jim,

I think you're spot on with your diagnosis - because the laminates have not been sealed they are gonna leak, which is a real pain in the ass! The good thing is that most potential owners are not as discerning as we are, so will readily spend their dollars on these pens due to the professional workmanship. Well done!

Bob.

 

[angelo49]

Nicely Done Pen Jim
I don't know if applying CA frequently while turning,
and before sanding, will help to prevent bleeding

 

[Penpal]

I would stick with real timber mate, worth it for peace of mind. I note with CA you gave it a whorl.

Peter.

 

[qquake2k]

Hi, Jim,

I think you're spot on with your diagnosis - because the laminates have not been sealed they are gonna leak, which is a real pain in the ass! The good thing is that most potential owners are not as discerning as we are, so will readily spend their dollars on these pens due to the professional workmanship. Well done!

Bob.

You're right, my friend whom I made the pen for was overjoyed with it.

 

[Terry Q]

Jim I stabilize all my spectra ply blanks. Haven't had any bleeding problems.

 

[Penpal]

Two important points have emerged 1. The customer is always the main consideration. 2. For real peace of mind Terry has an answer if you want to do more of these.

Glad you brought this forward guys lessons every day.

Peter.

 

[wm460]

Great looking pen Jim.