In 2007, I was into turning in a big way. I got into turning pens using exotic woods carefully paired with a package of pen hardware. My preference was chrome-plated hardware for its durability and affordable price. The result, when paired with African Blackwood, was an undeniably classy pen.
One special piece of wood was often inspiration enough to turn a pen. For this lead holder, I used a piece of bocote which was half heartwood and half sapwood.
Eventually, I began playing with different shapes and materials. I particularly liked the shape of the lower barrel of this European pen, and liked the bold colour and pattern of this acetate.
However, I eventually grew tired of working with stock pen kits, I opened all of my pen kit hardware and threw the parts into a big jar and I was free to mix and match parts.
In an attempt to see how short of a pen I could create that was still comfortable to use, I created this Micro-Ebony pen. It was exhilarating cutting the Cross refill shorter and shorter, hoping that I wouldn’t hit ink. I never did. The streaky African ebony offered a sophisticated look and a strong contrast to the chrome hardware.
I’ve made all sorts of pens, but eventually grew tired of turning pens, which are fairly limiting in form. I have always done my best work when pushing the limits, and turning pens had too many constraints. The other reason I stopped making pens was that I had way more pens than I needed.
In that spirit, I am listing the four writing instruments shown above for sale.
Sculptural Woodwork by Chris Wong 
Those are some mighty fine looking pens my friend.
Thank you!
Chris
Wow! These are so so nice, so unique! I never thought about it before … turning pens. Makes complete sense. Obviously since it’s a novel idea to me, it’s very exciting, but I understand how you say that eventually, it can be restrictive.
Once again, great work :)
Thanks, Holly. Turning pens is great because the investment both financially and space-wise isn’t that great, and the whole process from start to finish is relatively quick. It’s also pretty quiet and dust-free, so this is something you can easily do in an apartment.
Chris