Will this timber be OK ?

Well,

Got the bench finished this lunchtime so the lathe has somewhere to live (tight yorkie, no way I was buying a bench so made one)

Found a couple of bits of wood that I bought years ago to make stick heads with, never got round to using them.

They are spalted beech and pearwood, 8 x 8 x 1/1/4.

I thought I could maybe bandsaw them into blanks ?

Also I have lovely straight piece of blackthorn which was for a stick, the top might be a decent diameter, would that be useable?

Any thoughts ?

I also have some buffalo horn that has pretty thick walls, would that be any good to try with ?

Cheers
Phill

Phil, I think spalted beech and pearwood are just the ticket for pens. Can't speak for the buffalo horn since I've never used it, but I'd give it a spin anyway!

Phil, I've used all 3 woods and they work well. I've never used buffalo horn for a pen only stick handles. I've heard its very prone to splitting when its turned down to 1mm thick.

keith

I have used the top two woods you mention Phil, the pear i used to use when i had quite a few football pens to make ... If i remember correctly the buffalo horn becomes transparent with thin walls ...

I used buffalo horn on a Sierra, stinks like burning hair when turning but turned out OK as long as you're careful.

Buffalo Horn is great for pens I have made a few, sharp tools recommened.
Aussie buffalo horn doesn't smell.

Will save the horn for later then once I have a bit of experience under my belt.

I just couldn't bear to let go of it, even though I decided ages ago not to use it for sticks.

Just need to get sorted now with a tail stock chuck for drilling blanks and I'll be good to go.

Cheers for the tips.