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For those of us learning to make our own stems, may I recommend that you make a few out of clear or translucent materials so
you can SEE what your slots look like. I made this one to stick on one of my own pipes...





Here is one I just finished

Kim,

That's a really great idea. The only real issue is the difference between working with lucite and working with ebonite--two different animals. I would say, though, that if you can cut a stem with internals as nice as that, you're doing great. Good work and a very good tip, Kim.

TJ

Holy moly. I figure I got a gooder if a greased pipe cleaner goes through with only 3 or 4 major hitches. Guess I better up the ante.

I've been doing similar stuff, Kim, really working on getting smooth airways and a deep, well cut slot that transitions trouble free into the tapered tubular section. I've been using a lot of really bright lights cuz I'm too stupid to get something clear to work with.

I sure hate acrylic though.... just hate working it.

Sasquatch wrote:I've been using a lot of really bright lights cuz I'm too stupid to get something clear to work with.

I got some flak when I posted this a few years back, but since age has trashed my near vision I find mine invaluable for peering into mortises, stems, assorted orifi ( ),etc.: Otoscope

Clear lucite is great to learn on. And after that, working with vulcanite is a breeze. using clear stuff is a must for beginners.