New to pipecrafting and needing to get some feedback on my first "real" pipe. Its actually the 3rd pipe I've made but the first one that I drilled the tobacco hole and draught hole myself. The first two were "kits". I enjoy crafting these pipes and would like to sell a few. Needing some expert opinion on what I need to do or not do.
This first one came out fairly well, although I think I pushed the envelope with the thin shank and bit. The bad part is as I got into the briar I found a LARGE check in the middle of the block that I couldn't bypass without making the pipe too thin on the top edge. As a result there is a small crack still visible on the top edge of the bowl. You can kind of see it in the second picture toward the left edge of the pipe.
Problems I encountered were getting a good, tight fit between the shank and bit. I squared the shank with a forstner bit but there is still a little gap. And my finish isn't what I'd hoped, even throught 800 grit sanding, buffing and waxing yet still doesn't look like I achieved the mirror finish I like so well on all the "pros" pipes.
I'll try to post a picture or two of my first pipe. Would appreciate any comments or suggestions for doing better.
My next will be a freehand!
Thanks for looking!
David
