pens

PENS FOR THE TROOPS

HOME /

Gordon Patnude

August 10, 2020

This is not something that started with Silicon Valley Woodturners. Woodcraft and Sawmill Creek started the idea in about 2004; each started what has now become a nationwide activity that each year culminates on Veterans Day.

In 2015, after we had begun meeting at Santa Clara High School, and subsequently established a turning program for students, the Pens For The Troops program was initiated and 10 steadfast members turned 70 pens which were conveyed to Wood-craft in San Carlos for transfer to American servicemen at home and around the globe. Each year we strive to turn increasing numbers of pens and get more members to participate in the program.

As of November 2019, Woodcraft reports that more than 190,000 pens have been provided to bolster the spirits of active duty and rehabilitating military service members. By your participation in the Pens for The Troops program, you can count yourself as among the many proud Americans who stand behind our military.

Gordon Patnude

Jerry Galli

August 10, 2020

The pen kits are obtained from Woodcraft in San Carlos. Eric is the owner. I am the coordinator of the Pens for the Troops program. I distribute the pen kits to the club members interested in turning them. I also supply the pen blanks at no charge to our members. There are a variety of types of wood species all cut to length.

If anyone needs help to get started, I can arrange for helping with a demo, class, or video instruction. Tools needed are the basic. A roughing gouge, spindle gouge, and skew. Other items needed are Pen Mandrel with a Mandrel Saver Tailstock Center, Barrel Trimmer, Drill bits, CA Glue, Sandpaper, and possibly a Pen Press. The pens are to be returned to me before or at the November`s club meeting. For a video on the subject you can view How to Turn a Slim Line Pen on the Lathe | Pen Turning Basics on YouTube.

Jerry Galli

You can see some of Jerry's work in his member gallery.