On Making Classics for Your First Pipes

[Joe Hinkle Pipes]

I consider making classic shapes as paying your dues or an apprenticeship. If you want to perfect the craft and get better it's the best way to learn. You almost teach yourself if you pay attention to the fine details. Is it a fun way to learn? No. Is it frustrating at times? Definitely. Will you be a better pipe maker for having done it? Without a doubt. But it really depends on what your ultimate goal is.

[BobR]

I've been doing that a long time. One of these days I hope to have pipes in the same league.

Bill, I have absolutely no doubt you will.

[d.huber]

Fuck it. I agree with Tyler.

Me too. But my opinion has oscillated on the subject.

[Sasquatch]

Fucking or agreeing with Tyler? They're both fun, but they can leave you feeling ashamed.

[RadDavis]

Fucking or agreeing with Tyler? They're both fun, but they can leave you feeling ashamed.

Ok, that's kind of gross. Cut it out.

Rad

[Sasquatch]

Right?

[Tyler]

Here's a question: of the best 100 pipe makers ever, how many learned by making a zillion billiards to start?

No one knows really, though it could probably be researched to some high level of confidence. My guess is the answer is, not many. My point is simply this, it's not the only way. It might not even be the best way. We all learn differently. Can one learn making a bunch of billiards? Sure. Is that THE way? No.

[Tyler]

Fucking or agreeing with Tyler? They're both fun, but they can leave you feeling ashamed.

There's only one person in the world who knows the answer to this, and she probably agrees totally.

[The Smoking Yeti]

It's okay Tyler. I understand- kinda.

Honestly I think it's instructive to make a billiard. It's deceptively simple, hard to do right, etc.

The same can be said for most other shapes though, and the issues people have cutting a good billiard are the same issues they have cutting any other shape well. The best way to learn to make pipes well, is to continually embrace critique, and to try to make everything a bit better on the next pipe. Making 10 billiards is effing boring to me, and you may find that in the long run it will set you back stylistically.

[PremalChheda]

What may be more important than even making any particular shape is to first learn your tools, methods, materials, etc.. Then study pipe shapes. Looking at pictures is one thing, but having a well made pipe in your hands is much more valuable. $300+ spent on a very good quality/designed pipe may be your best investment in pipemaking.

P.S. I would be happy to make anyone a pipe for $400.00 that will be a good example.

[Joe Hinkle Pipes]

I'm in need of one Premal. Maybe I could trade you two or three of mine I've embraced your critiques from may, you will be surprised by the next pipe I post here.

[The Smoking Yeti]

What may be more important than even making any particular shape is to first learn your tools, methods, materials, etc.. Then study pipe shapes. Looking at pictures is one thing, but having a well made pipe in your hands is much more valuable. $300+ spent on a very good quality/designed pipe may be your best investment in pipemaking.

P.S. I would be happy to make anyone a pipe for $400.00 that will be a good example.

Yep!

Waitta turn the situation to your advantage Premal!

[LittleBill]

What may be more important than even making any particular shape is to first learn your tools, methods, materials, etc.. Then study pipe shapes. Looking at pictures is one thing, but having a well made pipe in your hands is much more valuable. $300+ spent on a very good quality/designed pipe may be your best investment in pipemaking.

P.S. I would be happy to make anyone a pipe for $400.00 that will be a good example.

I've got some art pieces in that price range!

[PremalChheda]

I'm in need of one Premal. Maybe I could trade you two or three of mine I've embraced your critiques from may, you will be surprised by the next pipe I post here.

Lets talk!

[Joe Hinkle Pipes]

Premal. Let me get these last few blasted and finished and I'll call you. Maybe we can get together.