Second solo Sandblast Dublinish Sitter

[Charl]

That's the right attitude!

[Ratimus]

Most people who work hard to be a good pipe maker are happy with their early pieces. A few years later, not so much.

You'll see.

I can attest to this.

As for the critique (or lack thereof) on other pipes, it is indeed difficult to judge a freehand. They appeal to a certain group of people, and despite being different than any other pipe, lack the true originality that sets a person apart at the top of the pack. At least nowadays.

The classic pipe shapes are classic for a reason. They have stylistic choices pre-made so that the whole critique can be objectively about execution. The truly unique ideas are based on the classic shapes but with one's own personal flavor.

It's so true! That's why you can look at a straight billiard from an established carver and know exactly who made it, whereas so many "unique" freehands all look like they were tumors excised from the only begotten love child of Erik Nording and Mother Willow from the Pocahontas movie.

[DocAitch]

Interesting
DocAitch