Thuya wood turning trouble

[Tom]

I continue to have problems when trying to turn a pen using Thuya wood. The problem is when I get within a few mm's of the correct diameter for the pen barrell, it will blow. I have tried faster/slower lathe speeds and also ensure my tools are extremely sharp, but no luck so far.

I am looking for some suggestions with techniques to address this problem.

Thanks for your help,

Tom

[Glen]

Havn't turned pens before or even worked with the wood your turning. But in reading your efforts I wonder if when your mm close if you couldn't sand to the desired dia. at that point.

Just a thought.

Glen