Well, my clay should be here when I get home today, so I wanted to get some input on the mechanics of the things.
1) I've read no pipe cleaners, as they're likely to snap the thing. True?
2) In my other thread on the topic, I was told not to put the bare clay in my mouth or else my skin will need the repair and maintenace! I've since read of wax, or dunking in beer. Any other suggestions? What type of wax? I was thinking just some chap-stick, but am worried about taste. Would chal stick on the lips alone be enough or would i need to coat up the end of the pipe? The beer seems like a better idea, but I don't drink beer too often, will scotch work? And really, is this 100% a must? I don't remember seeing Bill the butcher or reading of Sherlock prep their clays for smoking...
3) How often do you clean, and what method do you use? I want mine to get all blackened up, but if it starts to smoke bad and must be cleaned, I like the sound of burring it in the coals of a hot fire.
Thanks!
1) I've read no pipe cleaners, as they're likely to snap the thing. True?
2) In my other thread on the topic, I was told not to put the bare clay in my mouth or else my skin will need the repair and maintenace! I've since read of wax, or dunking in beer. Any other suggestions? What type of wax? I was thinking just some chap-stick, but am worried about taste. Would chal stick on the lips alone be enough or would i need to coat up the end of the pipe? The beer seems like a better idea, but I don't drink beer too often, will scotch work? And really, is this 100% a must? I don't remember seeing Bill the butcher or reading of Sherlock prep their clays for smoking...
3) How often do you clean, and what method do you use? I want mine to get all blackened up, but if it starts to smoke bad and must be cleaned, I like the sound of burring it in the coals of a hot fire.
Thanks!