Making a pipe from a can is a quick and easy way to enjoy your favorite herbs without having to buy a pipe. Plus, it’s a great way to recycle an old can and keep it out of the landfill. Here’s what you need to get started:
First, you’ll need to clean the can thoroughly. Remove any labels or stickers, and rinse it out with hot water. Once it’s clean, dry it completely. Next, you’ll need to make a hole in the bottom of the can. This will be the mouthpiece of your pipe. Use a sharp knife or a nail to make a small hole, about 1/4 inch in diameter. Finally, you’ll need to make a carb hole on the side of the can. This is a small hole that you’ll use to control the airflow when you’re smoking. Make the carb hole about 1/2 inch above the mouthpiece.
Once you’ve made all the necessary holes, you’re ready to start smoking. Fill the bowl of your pipe with your favorite herbs, and light it. Hold the pipe up to your mouth and inhale. You can use the carb hole to control the airflow, and get a smoother hit.Enjoy your pipe!
Materials You’ll Need
Before embarking on your can pipe-making adventure, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
Aluminum Can
The cornerstone of your pipe is an empty aluminum can. Choose a can with a clean, smooth surface free of any dents or sharp edges. The can’s size will determine the size of your pipe, so select one that suits your preferences. Larger cans yield larger pipes, while smaller cans are more compact and portable.
Here are some factors to consider when selecting your aluminum can:
| Can Size | Pipe Size | Portability |
|---|---|---|
| Large (e.g., soda can) | Large, suitable for prolonged smoking sessions | Less portable |
| Medium (e.g., beer can) | Medium-sized, a balance between size and portability | Moderate portability |
| Small (e.g., energy drink can) | Compact and portable, ideal for discreet or on-the-go smoking | Highly portable |
Ultimately, the best can size for your pipe depends on your personal preferences and intended usage.
Carving the Bowl
Now comes the fun part, carving the bowl of your pipe. Use a sharp knife to cut a circle in the bottom of the can, about 1 inch in diameter. This will be the bowl of your pipe. Use a drill to make a small hole in the center of the bowl, about 1/4 inch in diameter. This hole will be the airway for your pipe.
Next, use a file or sandpaper to smooth the edges of the bowl and the airway. You may also want to use a sealant to coat the inside of the bowl to protect it from heat and moisture.
Now, you need to create a depression in the bowl for the tobacco. Use a drill or a sharp knife to carve a shallow depression in the center of the bowl, about 1/2 inch in diameter. This depression will hold the tobacco and allow it to burn evenly.
Once you have carved the bowl, you can insert a metal or glass stem into the airway. You can also decorate the pipe with paint, markers, or other materials.
Reaming the Airway
The reaming step is crucial for creating a clear and smooth airway in your can pipe. Here’s a detailed guide on how to ream the airway effectively:
Materials You’ll Need
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Reaming tool (dowel, knitting needle, or drill bit) | To widen and smooth the inside of the airway |
| Lubricant (olive oil or Vaseline) | To reduce friction and prevent damage to the can |
Steps
- Prepare the reaming tool: Select a reaming tool that is slightly smaller in diameter than the intended airway. Lubricate the tip of the tool with olive oil or Vaseline.
- Insert the tool into the airway: Carefully insert the lubricated reaming tool into the airway, starting from the carb hole.
- Twist and push: Rotate the reaming tool back and forth while gently pushing it forward. This will scrape and widen the inside of the airway.
- Monitor progress: Periodically remove the tool and inspect the airway. The reaming process is complete when the inside of the airway is smooth and free of any ridges or obstructions.
- Smooth the transitions: Once the airway is reamed, take a fine-grit sandpaper or emery cloth and lightly sand the transitions between the carb hole, bowl, and mouthpiece. This will smoothen the airflow and improve the smoking experience.
