New Guy

[Mike Kenney]

Ok im new to woodworking been doing it for about 2 years. Ive been looking to get into Turning and was wondering a couple of things

1 a good place for blanks and pen kits

2 and what set of tools should i start out with

Im sure i think of a bunch of other stuff but cant now

Thanks
Mike

[Neal Addy]

Welcome to the forum and the vortex, Mike.

Best tools to learn on: 8 piece HSS set at Harbor Freight for $36.99. Less than the cost of one Sorby scraper. Even if you screw them up sharpening, who cares?

Best places for pen kits and blanks:

http://www.arizonasilhouette.com/
http://www.bereahardwoods.com/
http://www.woodturnerscatalog.com/
http://www.woodturningz.com/

[Kaptan J.W. Meek]

Welcome, I'm new here as well, but I've been turning for a few years..You really don't need alot of tools.. Neals idea about getting a set of cheap Hrbr Frt tools has alot of merrit.. Craftsman has gouges and parting tools, scrapers and skews that are not very expensive, and they are of decent quality.. I started with a cheap set, and 1) craftsman scraper, 2) craftsman skews, and a craftsman diamond parting tool. The first time I made a bowl, I knew I had to have something more..I went to a "woodworking" show and bought a high quality bowl gouge. ($73.00) I'm still using all those tools, but I'm looking hard at a hollowing tool, and I did make my own captive ring tool.. Most guys find a couple of tools they feel comfortable with, and use them for almost everything... Good luck!

[Steve Schlumpf]

Welcome to the Creek Mike!

In addition to the above advice I would suggest joining a local turning club if one is available near you. The information you would get there would help a lot in determining what tools you really need, how to sharpen, turn, etc.

Have fun with it and post often!

[Daniel Heine]

Mike,

For pen blanks and kits there are two places that I like to do business with:

http://www.woodtruningz.com

and

http://www.arizonasilhoutte.com

Both have great prices, but the kits from Arizona Silhoutte are higher quality. I would suggest starting out with a couple of slimlines, and progress from there.

I have the 8 peice Windsor Design turning tool set from Harbor Freight, and they are very high quality tools. I also have a set of Sorby tools, and there is little difference between them.

Good Luck,
Dan Heine

[Bernie Weishapl]

Welcome Mike to SMC and the vortex. Lots of good people and lots of knowledge.

[Dennis Peacock]

Welcome to SMC and the Vortex Mike!!!! :D

[Mike Kenney]

Thanks guys for the welcome

What chucks should i get one of my goals is make make a chess set any ideas will help. An what mandrels for pen making

Thanks
Mike

[John Hart]

Welcome Mike! Hope you find our little blackhole to your liking. One of your finest resources for information is right here on the Creek. The people here are always happy to help and lend an opinion and/or guidance. Spend your money wisely....learn slowly....enjoy yourself.:)