Well, I hope I don't regret this but I did find this forum in part for some input on my pipemaking efforts. I am still in my first year. It's kind of an addicting way to relax and create something useful.
This first one is my most recent, an apple shape with bamboo stem that is over 7 inches long but very light. The biggest thing I learned here is to make sure the bamboo knuckles are evenly spaced prior to using it. Oh, well. I did manage a more distinct transition between shank and bowl, which in the past has been a bit stubby.
Before that, a few weeks ago I finished this much shorter volcano shape. Here, I was experimenting with a faux ivory ring to offset the black stem.
All the best,
Tim
This first one is my most recent, an apple shape with bamboo stem that is over 7 inches long but very light. The biggest thing I learned here is to make sure the bamboo knuckles are evenly spaced prior to using it. Oh, well. I did manage a more distinct transition between shank and bowl, which in the past has been a bit stubby.

Before that, a few weeks ago I finished this much shorter volcano shape. Here, I was experimenting with a faux ivory ring to offset the black stem.

All the best,
Tim