pipemakersforum.com

My second attempt at a Poker.
Please critique.

Sorry the type of stem isn't classic for a poker, just scored a 1x42" sander, and all my stems look like this.

May i ask what you used for finishing?

Nicely done! I like that the bowl is a true cylinder that carries through to the bottom and that the shank is a second cylinder with a nice transition. The grain looks good also.
The rear shoulders of your saddle are rounded, you may be trying to do too much with a new tool.
I can't see any other stem details well enough to comment.
Good job!

Shellac for a finish.

Thanks, Doc. I used a small square while shaping the stummel to keep the sides straight and square with the top.

All around well done.Good grain appointment.I would give it another shine coat! I like your stem!!!

Thanks pipedreamer.
I'm applying shellac by hand, then sanding it smooth with 1500 grit, not as much shine as I would like...

apply shellac,wait a few minutes then just buff, might shine more with some carnauba .

I've been unable to buff shellac so far without the heat leaving marks in the finish. Even at low speeds. I've tried very little white diamond on the buffing wheel, and carnauba on the wheel.

I just sand smooth and apply some fine wax. Not happy, but that's where I am for now.

terryR wrote:I've been unable to buff shellac so far without the heat leaving marks in the finish.

You're probably using too much shellac, or your cut is too thick. What is your method of applying it?