Shopsmith Forums

I would like a recommendation of a good vendor that distributes supplies for turning pens. I want a vendor that supplies superior pen mechanisms, pen blanks and supplies.

If you have run across such a vendor, please share the vendors name, web site URL and/or telephone number.

Thanking everyone in advance for their recommendation.

Bob
San Diego

Bob

You cannot beat Packard Woodworks for service. They ship the same day you order. http://www.packardwoodworks.com/ Also these guys have some very nice kits. http://bereahardwoods.com/pen/supplies/ ... -main.html

I'd recommend Penn State Industries. I had placed my first order and mis understood some of the items contents. PSI called me and clarified that some of the parts I was ordering were already included in one of the larger sets and I need not order some of the items. Exactly where could you possibly expect now days to encounter that kind of customer support?? Really refreshing.

Also consider Arizona Silhouette. They handle Berea kits also.

http://www.arizonasilhouette.com/

I'll give a 2nd recommendation for Penn State Industries. I've been very satisfied with their pens and blanks. The only thing I can say negative about PSI is their processing/shipping can be a little slow. Normally you can figure 7-10 days from order to delivery.

Another company I've ordered from which I'm real pleased with is Wood-N-Whimsies. They also carry PSI pen kits and their prices are cheaper than PSI's on the same kit. The way they work, for 1-10 kits, they charge the same rate as PSI charges for 11-20 kits. They give a one-volume price break over PSI's price. They also usually ship same day. I've really been pleased with them, EXCEPT... I live in the same state as them, and I have to pay Sales Tax when buying from them which ups the price somewhat. If I need it immediately, I'll order from Wood-N-Whimsies, otherwise I order from PSI.

I have been very happy with Penn State, and from what I hear several dedicated mail-order places as mentioned above are good.

From my experience the Penn State kits are better than the Rockler or Woodcraft store-brand kits, in terms of precision dimensions, fit/finish, etc.

I will have to toss my recommendations for Penn State as well. They also have the mandrel adapter for the SS. I have always been satisfied with any orders I have received from them.

rkh2 wrote:I will have to toss my recommendations for Penn State as well. They also have the mandrel adapter for the SS. I have always been satisfied with any orders I have received from them.

I have tried many suppliers. Most are adequate. Penn State stands above all. I would rate them number 1. fjimp

Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences, good and bad. It appears that Penn State Industries is the preferred choice. I will certainly give them some business. But to be fair, I will check them all.

Thanks again. This is the sort of input that makes this forum so awesome. I also like that fellow woodworkers share their ideas and opinions with those that ask.

Bob
San Diego