Beginner's pipe, advice...

[Bormer]

Pipe is from pre-drilled block. Small handsaw, files, and sandpaper used for shaping, buffed with handheld drill. I would really appreciate if you could help with some remarks, advice, comments on how to progress.

The thing is, this is my 9th pipe and it seems that I'm not improving neither in pipe finishes, neither in pipe shaping, so I was wondering is there some kind of preferred shape for beginners to try in order to achieve a certain level of proficiency using tools, getting to know materials used, etc. Of course, I'll appriciate any other advice you are willing to share.

Thank you
Borna

[sandahlpipe]

1. If you want to improve, set a goal and don't settle. Find a factory pipe (preferably a billiard) and copy it. It matters less the tools you use (files, rasps, and sandpaper are adequate) and more that you pay attention to shaping exactly what you intend to do.
2. Pay special attention to straight lines, tapers, and curves. The shank on this pipe needs to have a taper, not a bulge to it. The curve around the bowl itself looks awkward.
3. Keep your lines distinct where they should be and let them flow where they should flow. You should have a flow between the end of the shank and the saddle of the stem, but you have a gap and a rounded shank. The rim of your bowl has an inconsistent radius. The bottom of the bowl protrudes below the bottom of the shank. On most pipes, you'll want the bottom line of the pipe to be continuous without sharp changes in direction from shank to rim.

Hope the advice is helpful for you. I myself have made pipes such as this as have many others here who now make nice pipes. You've gotta start somewhere. For most of us, it's a long road towards improvement but asking what you're missing is the fastest way forward.

[Bormer]

Thank you Jeremiah. I'll be carefull about the things you said and will follow your advice for the next pipe.

[PremalChheda]

I agree on replicating a simple shape. Straight will be easier to examine and follow. If you are not finding yourself improving on finish, shape, etc., you may need to pay attention a little more of how to utilize the tools and your hands, and also understand how the materials, stains, etc. work. File and sandpaper use to achieve desired shape and finish is a learned skill, and especially difficult when applied to briar/vulcanite. Teaching your hands to create what you want is even more difficult no matter what tools you use. Keep making pipes and improve one thing at a time.

[Bormer]

Thanks Premal, yes I'm aware it takes time and practice. For the next one simple shape it is.