Hello again. Here's a photo of the latest acquisition. It should be in my hands next week. http://pipesmagazine.com/members/fred/album/picture/598
I'm fortunate in that I have my choice of Pipes to smoke, on the spur of the moment.
Yes, Sinan would be a resource for custom Figural orders, but it's not a budget
friendly idea. The Shakespeare Figurals show up on e-bay from time to time. If you consign a custom order, be ready to specify: dimensions of the Pipe, grade of Block to
be used, type of bit material and color, type of bit-to-shank connector and weight.
Dealing direct with Carvers and/or Primary Retailers is head's up ball in the Meerschaum trades, and best approached with the aid of one who's been around the Meerschaum Block. This and many other aspects of acquisition, care & maintenance, use and repair are addressed, at length in the All Things Meerschaum Group on Smoker's
Forum. http://www.smokersforums.co.uk/index.php?
Fred