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*Please note that ALL Briar is subject to grain pattern fluctuations and possible internal or external flaws such as sand pits, cracks or holes. These are common to
any carver. These blocks are sold in smokeable condition. Once cut into, understandably, we can not accept them as a return regardless of reason. Most carvers regard workable flaws as an opportunity to
use a rich dark stain, or to rusticate the pipe. Worse flaws are frequently worked around by changing the design. These pipes blanks are great learning tools and will perhaps be the best pipe you’ve ever
smoked. Enjoy!
***Click Here To See Customers Work>>
Carving tips:
Begin by equipping yourself with either an assortment of hand files and sandpaper, carving knife, a Dremmel tool, or a stationary belt or
disk sander and the appropriate grits from very coarse to very fine (24 to 1000 where available).
You can go with the classic shapes, create one of your own, or even carve a figural design such as a relief nature scene, animal or figure head
such as an old sea captain. Anything your imagination can conceive your hands can do with proper determination. Many carvers work out their designs in clay first.
Always leave the stem in the pipe when carving. You can protect it by first being careful, and second by wrapping masking tape around it.
When the pipe is already smooth enough to have it’s own sheen, you are ready to stain it.
Use only alcohol soluble stains (denatured alcohol). Buff the pipe with Tripoli starting with green and finishing with white, or medium to fine. Use Carnauba wax (available in blocks. Do not use car wax.) as a final shine. Most bench grinders have available buffing wheels. Variable speed (slow) is best. Buffing should be easy if the proper waxes are used. Avoid over buffing, or the grain will come out in relief. Wear safety goggles! Bench grinders, although used by many pipe makers, can fling a pipe across the room and injure your or others. Adult supervision is strongly advised to anyone under 98 yrs. of age.
Have fun!
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