My son Bryan (15, got hooked at the 5 barns picnic) turned his first pen last night. I never saw so much excitement in his eyes. He won't let me post a pic of it until it is completely done, but it came out great. The new smaller HSS pen turning gouges from delta really worked well. He felt comfortable with the feel of them.
I just want to say thanks to the folks that took the time to answer his questions and throw some good advise his way. I guess that would be almost all the folks at the 5 barns picnis at the Grumbines.
I sure can relate. When my son (11yrs) made his fist pen a couple of years ago at Sophie's BB-Q party it was an awesome time for both of us! There's nothing like the thrill that a kid gets from making something he's been seeing his parent making. He still loves to make them and when we are both in the shop turning it's just a really special time for us. I know some day I'll look back on these times and smile with great pleasure. Enjoy it Mark! These are the days : )