How to make a pipe stem?

[moeburn]

I made my own pipe a while ago, its basically a cube of wood with 2 perpindicular holes drilled halfway through it, one for the bowl and one for the stem. For a long time i've been using a pen shaft as the stem, then i found a piece of aluminum pipe that fit perfectly. Both of which are pretty cheesy.

Any suggestions for what to make the stem out of, preferably carveable and pocket durable.

[NightProwler]

get a wooden dowel, and drill a hole going straight down it.
and now you have a wooden stem

[moeburn]

I tried doing that, and with my hand drill I have no idea how to get it not to break unless I find some hardwood dowels.

[Goodman3eb]

Use a large wooden dowel, drill out the center, and then start whittlin'!


Actually, in all seriousness, I would recommend brass. It is safe to use, and when buffed, looks really cool!