Form or Function Survey

[e Markle]

I had a discussion with another maker about how we all prioritize various aspects of pipe making differently. Some of us are driven by an artistic pursuit, and some of us only care about how the pipe smokes. I doubt any of us really view pipes as purely form or purely function enterprises, but I thought I might pry into the question a little.

I made the below survey as an effort to gain some insight on the topic, and I would really appreciate your input. Even if you're just beginning to make pipes, you're welcome to participate. The survey is 10 questions long, and I doubt it will take more than a few minutes to complete. I put what I thought would be the most time consuming question up front, but most of the questions are really basic (age, number of years making pipes, etc.) Responses are anonymous; no one will see your name/info. It will filter out duplicate responses from the same IP address.

Form or Function Survey

Comments are welcome below.

[baweaverpipes]

Cool survey!

[mightysmurf8201]

Awesome!

[pipedreamer]

Good Idea!!!

[Ocelot55]

As a data hound, I find this very fascinating. Are you going to share the results with us? I'd love to see how things shake out. Sample size may be a problem. You might also hit up the pipe carvers guild, social media, etc.

Thanks for doing this!

[kamkiel]

I took your survey (sorry in advance). I hope I didn't break it. I would love to see the results of it too.

Kiel

[pipedreamer]

Me too!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Rodneywt1180b]

Just so you know I'm too new to pipe making for over half of those questions to have any value from my answers. That didn't stop me from answering them though. As far as the sales questions go, "0" would be the correct response from me. I've only made a small handful of pipes, all with flaws. I'm still very much trying to work on the basics.
Rodney

[e Markle]

Thanks for the participation so far, guys. I'd be happy to share the results once we have some more responses.

Just so you know I'm too new to pipe making for over half of those questions to have any value from my answers. That didn't stop me from answering them though.

I'm glad you did. One of the things that I'm curious about is if new/er makers have different stylistic interests than those with more experience.

[sandahlpipe]

I can always fill out the survey a few more times from my other devices at different coffee shops to get you some more data...but seriously, it's nice you're doing this and I'll be interested in seeing the results you get.

[Sasquatch]

I can't make it work, the numbers jump around as I select 'em in the first part.

[PremalChheda]

I took the survey. It will be interesting to see the results.

I think some of the items in the first question may be a bit too similar. Engineering/how a pipe smokes, and the making of a beautiful pipe/well executed shape/and there was one more.

[Alden]

I can't make it work, the numbers jump around as I select 'em in the first part.

Use each number once you big dummy.
You just use the college degree for decorating the hallway wall?

[Alden]

I can calculate your age for you too if you'd like. Just send me your date of birth and bank account # (for verification, sometimes they ask).

[jogilli]

looking forward to the results Ernie ...

[Rodneywt1180b]

Thanks for the participation so far, guys. I'd be happy to share the results once we have some more responses.

Just so you know I'm too new to pipe making for over half of those questions to have any value from my answers. That didn't stop me from answering them though.

I'm glad you did. One of the things that I'm curious about is if new/er makers have different stylistic interests than those with more experience.

I'm kind of all over the place style wise. As far as what I like, I like a lot of vintage stuff. I like the classic shapes but I also like the old metal pipes and patent pipes, the crazier or more complicated the idea, the better. I love the old ornately carved meers too but that's a whole different thing. I really don't have any interest in most of the freehand stuff out there though.
My 3 favorite makers here are Sasquatch's, Scottie's and Maxmil's work.
I'm still trying to make a decent classic pipe. My drilling is pretty decent most of the time but my stem work and fit of shank to stem suck. I have a ways to go before I have the technical aspects down. I've been practicing, trying to get ready for this year's PITH. I want to complete a pipe I won't be embarrassed to show and trade to someone else by then.
Rodney

[Sasquatch]

I can't make it work, the numbers jump around as I select 'em in the first part.

Use each number once you big dummy.
You just use the college degree for decorating the hallway wall?

Ahh, see, I was 1 thru 10ing each category individually, not seeing them as being related to each other, which they aren't. So ... I can't do it cuz it's dumb. Sorry Ernie.

[Charl]

Very interesting, Ernie. Let it run a while and don't forget to let us know the results!

[Oakbear]

Sorry if i messed with your data, but there doesn't seem to be an option for makers who have never sold a pipe.