Lons
Fellow
I have done quite a few metal pens in my time mainly J/G and sierras hardedr than wood but I bet you found it very satisfying try brass next time
Thanks for the kind comments fellas.
I bought one of your brass JRs at York Woody, It's on my desk and in use. Something I aspire to making in the future I like the sound of Pauls copper pen as well!
I drilled the aluminium intending not to use tubes but decided the finish was too rough and the mechanism would stick fast to the top section. Too much work to get it smooth IMO so re drilled and fitted tubes.
I haven't applied a finish except a top coat of wax as I looked at the pen as a learning project rather than finished piece. Did think about CA finish or acrylic laquer but don't know if either would work. What do other members use?
A very nice pen Bob, it looks very well made.
Quite a few years ago now I used to work aluminium sheeting to make front panels for amps & switch control panels & after finishing the buffing the Ali could still cast its coat & leave your fingers black & you could leave a fingerprint on the polished Ali which was a devil to remove.
I started to use this method which sealed the Ali & put a skin on it to stop it shedding & picking up fingerprints. Boil a pan of water & add a spoonful of washing soda, which you can still buy, & submerge your piece for a while. Not sure now just how long I left it in but you can try samples for varying times, 5-10 mins & adjust from there.
Don't fill your pan too full of water because when you add the washing soda it can froth up & the wife won't be too happy if you make a mess.