SERIES 2008

 

MHP0801

 

When I began working on this pipe, I had a picture of a smooth-finished, acorn-shaped pipe that I thought I would copy. As the process went on, the pipe itself emerged as less acorn and more Rhodesian. Also, for the first time, I decided to try a rusticated surface. A contrast stain rounds off what I think is a stunning finish. A few flaws make this pipe less than perfect; but I still like it.

 

       

 

MHP0802

 

I call this pipe a 'crabapple' for two reasons. Firstly, while its shape is more apple than anything else, it has certain aspects that are not in conformity with the classic shape. To wit: a mildly forward-canting bowl and a slightly downcurved stem. Secondly, I made a few mistakes while making this pipe; and seeing that the apple is my favourite shape, messing it up made me quite the crab.

 

       

 

MHP0803

 

I call this pipe the 'potted lovat'. It was intended to be a classic lovat, until a flaw in the bowl that went the whole way through necessitated that it be cut down a bit. Nevertheless, this is a fantastic pipe: the grain is oustanding, and the contrast stain seems to have taken especially well. I will be keeping this pipe as a 'showcase' - and because I don't already have a lovat.