2024 PenMakers International Chicagoland MPG
April 19 and 20, 2024 - Symposium - Hoffman Estates Illinois
           



Key Dates

Shirt Orders End
March 31, 2024

Personalized Mug Orders End
March 31, 2024

Meal Orders End
March 31, 2024

Online Registration Ends
April 17, 2024
On Site After - April 17, 2024


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Demonstrations - Check Back As We Will Be Adding In The Next Few Weeks
Details Will Be Updated As We Get Them Worked Out

Beginning Pen Making
Mark Dreyer

All skill levels are welcome – Everyone starts with making a traditional wooden pen. But it does not need to end there. The key to the process is challenging yourself to do something new and branch out. We will take wood to a new level.

Part 1:
Topics include the entire process from blank selection or creation, drilling, gluing, turning, finishing, and assembly. We will look at numerous finishing techniques and the challenges of each – from simple buffing to CA and many in between. Working with all the basic tools and jigs used in the process.

Part 2:
We will talking tuning and finishing on both woods and acrylics.

There are numerous steps to creating the perfect pen. Your tools and techniques are just as important as that perfect kit or piece of wood .

Casting Other Projects with Resin
John Underhill

Resin casting has become a creative part of modern woodturning, giving us the ability to add color, character, and even natural or decorative objects into our work. In this demo, John will walk through resin choices and safe handling, material prep, mold selection or building, resin and colorant choices and casting blanks.

From small projects like rings and center bands to bottle stoppers, handles, small boxes, plates, and bowls, resin is another tool to expand what’s possible at the lathe.

Creating Celtic knot blanks, what works and what doesn't
Bill Witt

We will discuss the basics of building a pen (utensil-handle, rolling pin, ornament, etc) blank with a Celtic knot, along with tips and tricks to make the process easier and more accurate. Discussion will include jigs for cutting on the table saw and the bandsaw, along with options that change the look and size of your knot.

Real Rifle Cartridge Pens
Scott Strangfeld

Discover the step-by-step process of transforming authentic, once fired rifle casings into unique, functional writing instruments. Built on the collective wisdom from IAP members and other makers, this demonstration outlines a refined technique proven across 12 to 15 different calibers.

Attendees will learn how to safely pair real casings and bullets with standard slimline kits to achieve a seamless, professional fit. Beyond the technical mechanics, the session will highlight how this versatile process unlocks deep customization, enabling you to create tailored pieces that commemorate milestone hunts, first harvests, or deeply meaningful "Honor Pens" crafted from military honor guard casings to serve as lasting family memorials.

Topic - To Be Determined
Paul Pyrcik

TBD


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Topics (Subject To Change)
Casting Other Projects with Resin
Creating Celtic knot blanks, what works and what doesn't
Topic - To Be Determined
Real Rifle Cartridge Pens
Beginning Pen Making

Featured Vendor
Underhill Casting Solutions