So, I decided to try making some briar pipes. When it comes to my skills failure is always an option, but really, how hard can it be to drill and connect few holes? (I'll probably eat those words). I've already designed some full-size pipe profiles on sheets of graph paper, and want to begin the process of turning 2-D drawings, into 3-D reality. Now, I need to order some wood,...to buy some briar blocks that will fit my designs. I do not want to be forced to modify my design to fit the briar blocks that are commonly sold as blocks, pre-cut to standard sizes/shapes. I can see some problems with this last proviso. OK...I'm going to probably need some over-$$$$$ized blocks of briar.
Questions:
1- Order briar from what supplier.... and what grade? I really don't care about grain patterns...I will rusticate my pipes, so why pay a premium? Besides, I will not have that luxury of hand-picking any of the blocks, so I'll have to take what the briar supplier sends me. I do know it's impossible to predict flaws, cracks, and inclusions, and that no one can "see" into a block of briar. Too often working with a briar block becomes just a big crap shoot, and flaws can be uncovered at any step during the pipe-making process. Total rejects are possible. I'll take the risks. However, is there a grade or section of the briar burl that will likely yield the most usable amount of briar - with few flaws?
So, I need supplier(s) willing to work with my drawings -(I'll send patterns/profiles of my pipe designs) - for briar selection.
Any recommendations?
Thanks for any advice and help.
Frank
Edited by jvnshr: Title capitalization.
Questions:
1- Order briar from what supplier.... and what grade? I really don't care about grain patterns...I will rusticate my pipes, so why pay a premium? Besides, I will not have that luxury of hand-picking any of the blocks, so I'll have to take what the briar supplier sends me. I do know it's impossible to predict flaws, cracks, and inclusions, and that no one can "see" into a block of briar. Too often working with a briar block becomes just a big crap shoot, and flaws can be uncovered at any step during the pipe-making process. Total rejects are possible. I'll take the risks. However, is there a grade or section of the briar burl that will likely yield the most usable amount of briar - with few flaws?
So, I need supplier(s) willing to work with my drawings -(I'll send patterns/profiles of my pipe designs) - for briar selection.
Any recommendations?
Thanks for any advice and help.
Frank
Edited by jvnshr: Title capitalization.