#285

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Padouk and Chrome Ballpoint Twist Pen

PADOUK - Pterocarpus soyauxii

Padouk has a very unique reddish orange colouration, and the wood is sometimes referred to by the name Vermilion. Unfortunately, this dramatic colour is inevitably darkened to a deep reddish brown colour. Heartwood colour can vary, ranging from a pale pinkish orange to a deep brownish red. Most pieces tend to start reddish orange when freshly cut, darkening substantially over time to a reddish/purplish brown

Padouk is moderately heavy, strong, and stiff, with exceptional stability. It also has a beautiful aroma when turned and sanded. It is closely related to Amboyna. 

Having left our fellow traders after a great weekend at Burton On Trent floating market we made our way to Alrewas. Its not a long cruise, only about four hours but there are not too many mooring options if you decide to shorten your trip. Not far after the delights of Branston water park the A38 dual carriageway hugs the side of the canal for several miles until you lock up to the river Trent for a short hop up to the Alrewas visitor moorings. 

I would have loved to spend some more time looking around the village or even returning to the National Arboretum a few miles away, but I had pens to turn. I'd spent a few evenings getting ready cutting, drilling, gluing and trimming the pen blanks ready for turning so I was already ahead of the game.

#285 was turned just above the river lock on the edge of the village of Alrewas on Thursday 28th May 2015. To make the most of the good weather I decided to leave assembling the pen barrels onto the furnishings for a day or so as I can do that part of the process inside the boat.