One of the most common and well-loved materials in pen turning is CA glue, also known as cyanoacrylate. It’s not just that it is great for gluing pen tubes into wood blanks; it can also be used to stabilize weak wood, create a durable finish and even repair mistakes! So here are all the ways we like to use CA glue and why it’s a staple in the wood shop.
What kind of CA glue is best for making pens?
CA glue is available in thin, medium and thick viscosities. Each is used for different things.
- Thin CA glue is runny and dries within 3 -5 seconds. It is used to stabilize weak wood and to create a finish on wood turned pens.
- Medium CA glue is for general bonding and filling voids. Its medium thickness gives you control while applying it, making it ideal for repairing cracks. It dries in about 20 seconds.
- Thick CA glue is perfect for glueing tubes into drilled pen blanks and dries in 40 – 50 seconds. Its thickness ensures that it fills any gaps between your pen tube and the inside of your pen blank, which prevents blowouts.
Stabilizing punky wood or burl
Burl is typically porous and soft in spots and can crumble or catch when turning. Thin CA glue can stabilize punky wood and burl, making them easier to turn. Just apply some thin CA glue directly onto the soft wood, and then rub it in with a shop towel. Wear gloves and be very careful not to glue your fingers together! This method is also great for filling in tiny cracks that can’t be seen but can compromise the durability of your pen. Remember to spritz the area with an accelerator between coats to ensure it is fully dried. If not, you could end up with a cloudy result.
Fixing an overturned pen blank
Overturning a blank is a frustrating mistake after turning your pen to perfection, but CA glue can fix it! If you notice that you’ve accidentally turned past the bushings, don’t worry. First, switch to non-stick plastic bushings. Then, put some thin CA glue on a shop towel and apply it to the blank while the lathe is running at low speed. Focusing on the concave section of the blank, add layers, building it up until you’re happy with the shape of the barrel. Make sure to use accelerator spray in between coats. Then, sand and finish your pen.
Classic CA glue finish
A CA glue as a finish on pens is popular because it’s so durable and glossy. Sand your pen barrel to 600 grit and then switch to non-stick plastic bushings. Apply a small amount of thin CA glue to a shop towel, start the lathe on low speed and wipe it evenly over the blank. Spray with an accelerator and repeat. The more layers you apply, the harder and shinier your finish will be. Afterwards, sand your pen blank with micromesh up to 12000 grit.
Creating an inlay in wood
A creative way to dress up any piece of wood is to add an inlay. Opal pieces, gemstones and gold foil are just a few options for filling a natural void or one you make intentionally. Sand your pen barrel down to size, and then apply a layer of thin CA glue to the crack. Using an inlay tool, place the crushed opal in the crack or hole with the glue. Cover with more CA glue, add more opal and press it down firmly. Lastly, take some very finely crushed opal and sprinkle on top to fill any small gaps. Seal it with a layer of CA glue and accelerator and sand it. Have one final look for any gaps, fill them with glue, then sand again and finish.
Getting the most out of your CA glue
- CA glue usually has a shelf life of about one year. After that, it will thicken and become less effective.
- Keep it in the fridge around or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit or 4 degrees Celsius.
- Use non-stick plastic bushings when doing a finish.
- Get extra glue tip extenders for applying to really tight spaces.
- If you buy a large bottle of glue, divide it into smaller bottles for precision when applying.
Adhesives, finishes and supplies for wood turning pens
CA glue is just one of many materials you can use for your lathe projects. At William Wood-Write we have all the pen making kits and tools you need, as well as some unique and unusual pen blanks. We’re always getting new stock, so don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for updates and deals!
