Ipé Slimline Ballpoint Pen

uniquetreen — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 22:00:39 +0000

This pen is made from Ipé (Tabebuia chrysantha) which is incredibly dense, so much so that it won’t float in water or sustain a flame. I made it with matte black fittings so it’s very understated while still stylish with a nice weight. I really like turning Ipé because it takes an incredible finish, even though the silica in the wood is tough on my tools. You have to sharpen your tools much more frequently when you’re turning it.

Mechanism: It’s a Cross style ballpoint with a twist mechanism. The fittings are a matte black with an epoxy coating for a very durable finish. Replacement inserts are available at any office supply store.

Finish: The pen was sanded up to 400 grit, then burnished with 0000 steel wool to bring up a smooth surface. It was then finished with mineral oil, bee’s & carnauba wax and a final polish with paraffin wax.

Price: US$35
Item Ref No: IpeSP0039
Status: Available. Click here to inquire about purchasing.

Ipé Slimline Ballpoint Pen

uniquetreen — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 23:58:00 +0000

Ipé (Tabebuia chrysantha) is an incredibly dense wood, so dense it sinks in water, and won’t sustain a flame. It’s most common use in the US is for making decks. It’s naturally insect & rot resistant, and a number of famous boardwalks are made from it, like the one in Ocean City New Jersey. It’s density makes it difficult to work, and it quickly dulls your tools. I acquired this particular lot of Ipé from a guy who started building a deck from it and discovered he was allergic to it. He sold me all his decking and was glad to see it gone. Although the wood is a dark brown in color, the saw dust is actually green for some reason. It’s also a pretty good irritant, so, if you don’t wear a mask, you’ll probably be coughing for a couple of days afterwards. The wood takes a lustrous finish and you’ll like the heaviness of the pen.

Mechanism: The mechanism is Cross style and refills are readily available in most office supply stores.

Finish: The pen was sanded up to 400 grit, then burnished with 0000 steel wool to bring up a smooth surface. It was then finished with mineral oil, bee’s & carnauba wax and a final polish with paraffin wax.

Price: US$35
Item Ref No: IpéSP0028
Status: Sold but a similar pen may be available. Click here to inquire.

Photo by Jennifer Tai Photo Artistry

Unique Treen » Ipe

Ipé Slimline Ballpoint Pen

Ipé Slimline Ballpoint Pen