I know it is not scrolling but

[cdrover(Clyde)]

I received a new mini laithe for Christmas. I have been looking around the web for supplies. It seens that supplies are expensive  for this hobbie. Any suggestions. Are there any pen turners out there and where do you get your stuff?  I ordered a starter kit from Rockler with FREE shipping but apparently not to Canada $%#$%^%.

[Keefie]

I can't help you with your supplies Clyde as I get all mine from the UK and postage to you would make the prices prohibitive. I can say that once you start your turning you will find it as addictive as scrolling and just as enjoyable.

[newfie]

hey Clyde my neighbor turns pens and he gets his supplies from  http://www.penblanks.ca/home.php and http://www.leevalley.ca/

its a expensive hobby especially when you break a few inserts.at least thats what he tells me.   

[cdrover(Clyde)]

Can I cut my own blanks from stock like purple heart or birds eye maple etc.

[scotti158]

You can use almost anything, including corn cobs, pine cones, any interesting wood, etc.

[Dan26]

Clyde, you have just encountered another addiction.  The supplies can be expensive. You can buy some pen kits for about $1 up to $45. Go to the IAP site http://www.penturners.org/ and look at the vendors list. This will get you started. But remember, there is no going back.

[Gadois]

Penn State Industries have a very complete catalogue of supplies.
http://www.pennstateind.com/

[chelcass]

Here are a couple of places you can try.

www.islandwoodcraft.ca
www.bowriverwoods.com
www.packardwoodworks.com
www.blackforestwood.com
www.pennstateind.com

These are all in Canada.  Hope it helps.

Chelcass

[daliclimbs]

Lathe work is expensive. I order all my pen supplies from Penn State. They have the best prices and service! you can make your own pen blanks easily! I do advise using stock that is at least 3/4''. Turn plenty of wood pens before trying acrylic, and have fun! I also advise you research pen squaring jig plans. It makes for much better quality joints in your pens.

[newfie]

Can I cut my own blanks from stock like purple heart or birds eye maple etc.

my neighbor does the same thing Clyde but he mostly makes pen from  moose and caribou antlers for the top part and used bullet casings for the bottom part.but the the pen kits are not cheap and the blanks for turning don't come with the kits just the insert and the working parts of the pen itself.

[cdrover(Clyde)]

Thanks for the advice.