I wanted to buy a Scottie Piersel pipe for quite some time. I think she is one of the most talented carvers working today. However, it was quite hard to get hold of one: Every time one popped up for sale, it was already gone before I could look at it. So one Friday, two weeks back I contacted her for a commission.
Scottie is known for her iconic pencil shanks, which his her signature style. I selected one, which she was working on. I was looking for a pencil shank, traditional bowl shape, smooth natural finish if possible, but sandblast was also OK. I wanted a reddish stem, and chose a traditional Cumberland.
My bad luck, when the pipe was shaped it could not be finished smooth, due to a couple of very minor flaws and discolorations. We discussed and decided to sandblast. Scottie suggested to try a two tone finish, which would make the grains pop, and I went with her choice.
This pipe has excellent grain all around, and is 12 inches long (I have placed one of my standard Dunhills for comparison). I am extremely pleased, and can’t wait to smoke it.
Scottie sent a bunch of pictures and videos when she was making the pipe - I have posted the very first picture when I selected this
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