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I find myself basically picking a stem I want to try and then shoving it on the the pipe I am making. I know this doesn't work, but how do you figure out what stem is going to accentuate the pipe? Is there some rules? Do you draw it out and tweek it?

Also, I can't seem to do two buttons the same, is this just practice or is there some rules that will help me?

rev

I'm only just past the stage you describe. I have stayed away from fancy stems, so I can't comment a whole lot on that, but for the classics remember that the length of the stem should be about equal to that of the stummel. The Canadian/Lovat family is obviously different. What helps me is to draw it first. If it doesn't look right odds are it's not.

As for consistent buttons, I had to physically measure the dimensions on each for about 8 or so pipes. Now I just use muscle memory and eyeballing it. The only measurement I really take now is the thickness behind (?in front of?) the button.

Ocelot55 wrote: (?in front of?)

How.
dare.
you.
?

e Markle wrote:

Ocelot55 wrote: (?in front of?)

How.
dare.
you.
?

I do what I can.

thanks Jesse,

and Ernie... thanks for nothing

why don't you go comb your hair or something

rev

Yeah, drawing first totally helps. As far as lengths go, I usually end up eyeballing it. As a rule of thumb though, I try to keep my stem lengths proportional to another dimension of the pipe- it might be shank length, or total stummel length, or sometimes even half the stummel length.

As far as stem design- It really depends. When I draw, I try to decide what I'm going for overall with the pipe. Do I want a continuos flowing curve? If so I'm guessing I want a tapered stem of some sort. Is there a panel on the bottom of the shank? Maybe I want the stem to be a half saddle.

With every pipe design, you'll find there is more than one right answer, many different styles of stem can work, if executed properly(but please, avoid double beaded stems. Just. Please.).

Most important, when you draw the pipe, before you ever start cutting into briar, have an idea what stem you'll be doing, and have a reason why. You might change your mind, but always have a reason for using the stem you do.

Cheers!

Yeti

the rev wrote:thanks Jesse,

and Ernie... thanks for nothing

why don't you go comb your hair or something

rev

yes, the stem should fit the style of the pipe. Better?

I typically decide as I go. I like the spontaneity of just winging it.