Where Do I Start?

[Old_Newby]

I have never made a pipe. I only have a carving knife and sandpaper. I do have a hand drill and a table vice but think if I start with solid block I will need a drill press.

Is the best bet to buy one of these
Kits and just carve away, sand, then stain it?

 

[Jbyrd]

This is how a lot of people start out. a block some files and sand paper

 

[RustiePyles CPG]

Your gonna find briar very hard to work with a carving knife, it’s very dense. You’ll be doing more sharpening than carving. Your better off chucking up a 6” hook and loop sanding pad in a drill and putting it in a vise. Some 36 grit will get you shaping in no time.

 

[crashthegrey]

My first kit was done with a knife, a file, and sandpaper. For years now I've made a living selling pipes and making both handmade and production pipes professionally, so give it a whirl.

 

[kcghost]

You have a chore ahead of you. It isn't easy carving a pipe and then having it turn out smokable. Best of luck to you.

 

[Old_Newby]

Thanks everyone. I will take my time and do it the slow old fashioned way. Chisel, Files, Dremel, knife, sandpaper. If it sparks a passion I will go from there. I am 58 and plan to retire in 4-7 years so if I am having fun by then I might pickup the lathe and drill press and get into the business.