I would like to change the curve shape on a modern celluloid pen (just the last 1/2 inch), but don't have a lathe. I was considering putting the pen body in the chuck of my variable speed drill and putting some wet/dry sandpaper to it, and then work up in grade until I can put a polish back on the new curve.

Is this a foolhardy venture, or one with reasonable chance of success?

If so, what grades of abrasive would you use?

i would try it on a cheap pen first mainly to see what the chuck does to the body. other than that why not try it? at the very least it will make for a funny story.

To shape the end of my pens I use a file to get the shape and then 600, 1200, 1500 Novus polish 3, 2, 1,

Tape the pen before chucking it. I have changed the shape of a lot of my pens this way. Make sure the end is solid first though.

Chris

It all depends upon how thick the pen is and how much you want to remove. My guess it that it is not very thick and mot much material can be removed without destroying the pen.

Hmm. Good point. I guess I'll need to borrow a friend's lathe, as my drill chuck is not large enough to accommodate a pen & tape.


The pen was turned from a solid piece, so the walls and ends are actually a bit thick and chunky. If careful, I should not run a danger of running through. Oh yeah, the corners of the bit that hollowed it probably come a bit closer to the outside wall. So I'll check for that.

Thanks to all for the advice.

A photograph would be better to help advise.

Mark