newbroom,
The briar I get directly from Steve Norse at vermontfreehand. I have used Manno, Mimmo, and Algerian. This particular block was a Grade 2 Jumbo Algerian . . . at least that is what it started from LOL! The Ebonite on this one is German SEM, supposedly the best available, I have only used the NYH brand the other 2 times so I can't really speak much for it, except this SEM is much harder to polish smooth than the NYH brand. I use delrin tenons since I don't have a lathe yet. My drilling also need improvement, I do most of it by eye on a drill press. I need a better setup in that regard but have been putting it off for plans of the problem taking care of itself when I actually get a lathe.
When I'm not using ebonite I prefer making stems from Acrylic. I use fiebings leather dye for staining, I use a denatured and shellac mix for sealing the stain, very thin, apply and wipe off (this is actually used by most high grade pipe makers, so please don't scoff at the idea. This keeps the stain from fading and rubbing off on your fingers). I then use red trip polishing compound, then white diamond, and finally finish with carnuba wax.
I'm still in my infancy but this brings me much happiness!
I really enjoy making fantasy type pipes, but lately I have been doing more danish inspired shapes since I am preparing to get ready for the Chicago Pipe Show and the fantasy stuff takes quite a bit more time for me. I will probably get run out of the show since I've only been at it since May 2015, but I'll have fun regardless.
