Making your own cue

[the scorpion]

How easy is it to make your own cue from scratch and what type of materials and machines do you need as I have seen some of the cues on here and I would really love to design and make my own.

[Craig Fales]

I've made about 10 cues for Brianna Prod. on a Porper....as far as woods go try http://stores.ebay.com/BELL-FOREST-PRODUCTS *I've bought some wood from them before....use http://www.cuecomponents.com/mahadobx18.html for handle wood... as for anything like inlays and ringwork, that you can get someone to make it or just buy premade forearms and buttsleeves from Samsara...

[BarenbruggeCues]

How easy is it to make your own cue from scratch and what type of materials and machines do you need as I have seen some of the cues on here and I would really love to design and make my own.
This post could be a very long one but I will try to keep it short and simple.
It is NOT easy at all to under take a project like this. Could it be done?....
Of course........in the right frame of mind and an extreme amount of patience one can accomplish just about anything.
Without the proper tools and training (knowledge) I assume one could "whittle out" a very rough proto type that may be useful as playing instrument or may just end up as a project to admire from across the room.
Many,many $ and many,many,many hours go into perfecting the skills needed to accomplish anything that will stand the test of time.
I believe it is much easier today than it was just say...10 years ago for someone to become involved in building or repairing cues but is still a mountain that is one of the tallest.
I hope this in no way influences you not to try but just be prepared for things that you have NO idea that are going to happen sure as the sun rises. And you will spend many sleepless nights trying to figure out how to fix it.
By far ...........the best way to get started in this is to find someone already deeply involved and see if they would be willing to lend a hand and some advice and mostly some of their experiences that they have already experienced in the craft.
I sincerely wish you the best of luck and don't let anyone talk you out of it unless it is really something you don't want to take on.
Sincerely,
Dave

[cheese_ball]

Dave!

I didn't know you posted on AZ... I've never seen you here before. Welcome! So, how long is your waiting list these days??? I've always liked your work, when can I contract a nice wrapless butterfly???

-little C-

[Gimme The 8]

Its just like building cabinets, engines, boats, or playing pool very good. If you want to do it just do it and dont expect much until there is a pile of sawdust that you cant see over. It would also be helpful if you know a cue maker that you can take your finished cues to so he cna let the air of you now and then. When you get the finishing part down you wil be just about there.
Some can do lots of nice work with junk equipment because they can adapt it where others need good machinery to start with.
Post the pics when finished.

[JoeyInCali]

How easy is it to make your own cue from scratch and what type of materials and machines do you need as I have seen some of the cues on here and I would really love to design and make my own.
From scratch would be very tough.
You can buy cue parts from Prather.
With points and inlays if you want.
Several makers buy their blanks from them.

[CamposCues]

A few years back I asked a similar question to a popular midwest cue maker and he pretty much snubbed me and said if I didn't have $50,000 then I was wasting my time...and he was an ass about it. I probably would have gotten discouraged along the way and gave up on my dream of cue building but his comments pissed me off and drove me to keep with it. Needless to say, I've never had any where near 50K and I'm building cues. I just had to buy a piece of equipment here and a piece there. It isn't an easy road (unless you have 50K ha, ha) but it can be done. I was really po'd about the way that cue maker tried to snuff out my dream but in the long run I guess I should thank him.

I wish I'd have know about this forum then. Everyone here has been a lot more receptive to my questions...thanks by the way.

[Canadian cue]

Do you want to build a singular cue for youself to use or do you have ambitions of building multiple cues? If you only want to build one I would sugest finding a local maker willing to let you build one with you. Pick the materials from his stock and help in the process as much as you feel comfortable doing. If you have previous experience operating metal and woodworking equipment I think it is quite possible to build a complete cue of your own design (with the makers close supervision and guidance). To build a single cue at home by yourself I believe would be to much of an investment in equipment and time.

[pawnmon]

As a jeweler friend of mine said (about learning to make jewelry) "If you think education is expensive - try ignorance." I suggest you get some instruction in cuemaking before you dump a lot of time and money into your cuemaking project.

[PoolSleuth]

From scratch would be very tough.
You can buy cue parts from Prather.
With points and inlays if you want.
Several makers buy their blanks from them.


Would you like to make a LIST of Makers who buy cue parts from Prather:p

[JoeyInCali]

Would you like to make a LIST of Makers who buy cue parts from Prather:p
You can contact them.
Info kinda sensetive on that one.

[PoolSleuth]

You can contact them.
Info kinda sensetive on that one.

Well you seem to have the inside SCOOP, but are unwilling to share that info... Or are you just talking TRASH???????

[JoeyInCali]

Well you seem to have the inside SCOOP, but are unwilling to share that info... Or are you just talking TRASH???????

http://prathercue.com/page%20cue%20parts/prongs%20services.html
There you go.
You go ask them.
I knew two local makers who bought them and one claimed 30 makers make their spliced cues from Prather's blanks.
I don't have to share you jakksquat.

[Hidy Ho]

Well you seem to have the inside SCOOP, but are unwilling to share that info... Or are you just talking TRASH???????

You got too much time on your hands ...

[Craig Fales]

A few years back I asked a similar question to a popular midwest cue maker and he pretty much snubbed me and said if I didn't have $50,000 then I was wasting my time...and he was an ass about it. I probably would have gotten discouraged along the way and gave up on my dream of cue building but his comments pissed me off and drove me to keep with it. Needless to say, I've never had any where near 50K and I'm building cues. I just had to buy a piece of equipment here and a piece there. It isn't an easy road (unless you have 50K ha, ha) but it can be done. I was really po'd about the way that cue maker tried to snuff out my dream but in the long run I guess I should thank him.

I wish I'd have know about this forum then. Everyone here has been a lot more receptive to my questions...thanks by the way.

The gimp donkey was probably trying to discourage you so he wouldn't have more competition...:D

[Kelly_Guy]

Well you seem to have the inside SCOOP, but are unwilling to share that info... Or are you just talking TRASH???????

I can't find any trash talking in the post. I saw Joey suggesting to someone who expressed an interest in getting into cuemaking that one possible route was buying some already made cue parts. He said it would be tough starting from scratch on your own. Telling him that several cue makers do that was only suggesting it was a viable option it seemed to me.

If no cue makers ever bought any parts from Prather, Prather would probably quit trying to sell them to nobody.
Kelly

[Kelly_Guy]

The gimp donkey was probably trying to discourage you so he wouldn't have more competition...:D

Or that could be his standard response to discourage people who are not serious and lacking the fortitude needed to get into cue making.

I heard Ben Afleck asked in an interview once what his advice was to people who want to try and become an actor. His answer was that he tells them to forget it, it is too tough of a career to get into, and chances of failure are so high it isn't worth it. His reasoning was if the people he says that to get discouraged they would not have made it anyway and he saved them the struggle, and if they weren't discouraged then there resolve was probably stronger after his negative comments and they had a chance.
Kelly

[CamposCues]

Or that could be his standard response to discourage people who are not serious and lacking the fortitude needed to get into cue making.

I heard Ben Afleck asked in an interview once what his advice was to people who want to try and become an actor. His answer was that he tells them to forget it, it is too tough of a career to get into, and chances of failure are so high it isn't worth it. His reasoning was if the people he says that to get discouraged they would not have made it anyway and he saved them the struggle, and if they weren't discouraged then there resolve was probably stronger after his negative comments and they had a chance.
Kelly

Maybe but I doubt it. I think he was pretty much just a d*ck. He is the closest cue maker to me or so I thought at the time. I just asked him how he got started and if he knew of any worth while videos or books that could help me. He just replied with a condescending email about if I didn't have 50K to get started I was wasting my time and he wasn't interested in giving me any advice. His attitude pretty much pissed me off. Many local players have his cues. I have yet to find one that isn't flawed by him in some way. That makes me strive for perfection, which I'm far from but I at least try not to make the same flaws I see him make. Like I said, I should thank him. He keeps me driven and critical of my own work.

[Kelly_Guy]

Maybe but I doubt it. I think he was pretty much just a d*ck. He is the closest cue maker to me or so I thought at the time. I just asked him how he got started and if he knew of any worth while videos or books that could help me. He just replied with a condescending email about if I didn't have 50K to get started I was wasting my time and he wasn't interested in giving me any advice. His attitude pretty much pissed me off. Many local players have his cues. I have yet to find one that isn't flawed by him in some way. That makes me strive for perfection, which I'm far from but I at least try not to make the same flaws I see him make. Like I said, I should thank him. He keeps me driven and critical of my own work.

I just noticed where you are from... Air Force brat here, I lived at the base there in Omaha when I was a kid.

I am close to getting a lathe myself. There have been a few people very helpful to me with advice and information (I will always be in their debt), and only one or two not so helpful. Getting pissed off about something like that and being able to use it as a positive motivation can be huge... I am glad it worked out for you!

Kelly

[Cue Crazy]

Maybe but I doubt it. I think he was pretty much just a d*ck. He is the closest cue maker to me or so I thought at the time. I just asked him how he got started and if he knew of any worth while videos or books that could help me. He just replied with a condescending email about if I didn't have 50K to get started I was wasting my time and he wasn't interested in giving me any advice. His attitude pretty much pissed me off. Many local players have his cues. I have yet to find one that isn't flawed by him in some way. That makes me strive for perfection, which I'm far from but I at least try not to make the same flaws I see him make. Like I said, I should thank him. He keeps me driven and critical of my own work.


Maybe the direct competition was the issue, I don't know, but I could see that happening being in the same area. I was lucky enough that no one here was even doing repair, and I had been hand tipping for years already. I picked up some tricks on that from repair guys at tournaments in surrounding cities on improving My equipment to do that stuff. Later I starting thinking about building a few cues, before I really knew what all went into it as far as equipment and material, at that point I talked to one maker that produces alot of cues, and he was very kind, offering to let me come By and see his operation. Later on through work of mouth I was introduced to another maker that built very few cues, but He pulled a cue out of his case to show me, that I thought was just absoulutly beautifull, and from there I was pretty much hooked. He also invited Me by to see his shop, so My experiences were alittle different. I've actually met more people online like you mentioned then I did locally. Some makers are in It for the love of It before the money, others may have been at one time, but I believe at some point that felt they needed to start protecting their investment.

Some makers will give you the shirt off their back to help you out, those are the ones I remember, and hope to someday make it worth their while, but yes some others can be a real dick about It like you mentioned, or just blow you off. I firmly believe that everything comes around, and as far as being true to your craft in concerned, I believe part of that is sharing with others some of what was once shared with you. Ofcoarse I don't feel you can share everything, but that is out of respect for the source in which it came from.

I for the most part learned the basics hands on, but have learned many valuble things from here or other sources, and some of the fine makers that are secure enough to share their experiences. The best lessons sometimes seem to be hands on through trial and error, but sure helps to be pointed in the correct direction beforehand. ;) :D No matter how much I learn or pickup, I will probably always feel room for improvement, so I will always enjoy hearing others peoples thoughts also.

Anyway you look at It, it could be a huge investment for the average person, even for just the basics. I did the same thing, and aquired one piece at a time, something that I am still doing, and will continue to do until I feel like things are operating smoothly. I can build a nice cue, but between repair work & the need for stand alone equipment, I don't make many a year. My list would take between 10-20 years at this rate to fill, so I continue to work toward the goal of being able to supply demand, and maintain quality at the same time.

If I did not depend on repair work to help support it, then building more cues would be easier, so guess it depends on what all you plan to do, as to what all It takes to acomplish the goal. I am of the thought that repair work offers many experiences that are very valuable when it comes to building them, and also when matching an individual players style. Slapping a cue together is not all that hard with the equipment to do that & alittle instruction, but some of the best things that go into a good playing cue are hard learned. Sometimes sourcing the material you prefer does not come easy either.



Greg

[CamposCues]

I just noticed where you are from... Air Force brat here, I lived at the base there in Omaha when I was a kid.


I've lived here all my life and have met a lot of interesting people from the base. It would have been nice if John Joubert the serial killer wouldn't have gotten stationed here but other than that the air force folks are cool.

It just so happened the first cue builder I contacted was kind of an ass but pretty much all the others have been real helpful and have helped me keep most of my cues on the pool table and out of the fire place. I'd of been in trouble when I was trying to learn veneers if it wasn't for the folks from the forum. They've also been real helpful on what equipment to buy or not to buy based on experiences they have already had. Saved me a few dollars no doubt...much appreciated.

[SnakePool]

I'm lucky, the cuemaker I work for is teaching me everything I want to know about cuemaking. I'm starting out with sneaky pete's, well not so sneaky after I'm thru with them. My advice would be to seek out a cuemaker and ask for an apprenticeship.

Not just Prather but alot of the full-spliced blanks come from Schmelke.

[Chris' Cues]

I was fortunate to meet and become friends with a cue maker. Even though he lived 3 hours away, I would visit every month or two, spend the weekend shooting pool and watching him in the shop. Then I bought a lath and materials and started building cues myself. At first it wasn't a problem. But the more equipment I bought and the more cues I started to sell, It was like he got jelous,and now wont even hardly speak when I run into him. I have built around 200 cues, with the last batch containing a Ivory handled cue with Ivory points and spears, with 53 Lapis inlays. Looks like an Ivory cue with Ebony outlines, Drop dead georgous. This wouldn't have been possible without him, even though he puts me and my work down as being inferior. That has made me strive to make the best hitting cues that I can, and try to make them look as good as possible.
If you want to try to make cues, Go for it. They get better with each one you make.

[PoolSleuth]

I knew two local makers who bought them and one claimed 30 makers make their spliced cues from Prather's blanks.
I don't have to share you jakksquat.

I think you are just a Keyboard Commando want to be Cuemaker who makes claim you can not back up....:)

[JoeyInCali]

I think you are just a Keyboard Commando want to be Cuemaker who makes claim you can not back up....:)
Lemme consult with a lawyer before I name two of them for you.
Get back with me next year, Bruce. That'll give me almost year of crapless time from you.
You are Bruce, aren't you?
Makers using Prather components is common knowledge.
Verl Horln made and sold blanks as well.
Where did Bushka buy his blanks from?

[PoolSleuth]

Lemme consult with a lawyer before I name two of them for you.
Get back with me next year, Bruce. That'll give me almost year of crapless time from you.
You are Bruce, aren't you?
Makers using Prather components is common knowledge.
Verl Horln made and sold blanks as well.
Where did Bushka buy his blanks from?



Prather components have to be going somewhere, and it would be interesting to know who say they build from scratch, and just assembling parts....;)

Bushka got his blanks from who?










P.S. Actually Joey I am totally surprised you are not at the Hopkins Expo observing the Craft of Cue Building, as I understand that is where the Best of the Best ALL Display their Cues one a year... Plus all the Big time buyers from Off Shore come to purchase from the best of the best.

[PoolSleuth]

I'm lucky, the cuemaker I work for is teaching me everything I want to know about cuemaking. I'm starting out with sneaky pete's, well not so sneaky after I'm thru with them. My advice would be to seek out a cuemaker and ask for an apprenticeship.



I am curious as too how long you have been an apprentice, and how much longer before you feel you can go out on you own and build Cues.

Saying nothing about the Capitol Investment you will need in Equipment, Machinery, Hand tools, etc. you will need to turn Wood Block, Metal, and other Assorted Materials into finished Salable cue....

[rhncue]

I am curious as too how long you have been an apprentice, and how much longer before you feel you can go out on you own and build Cues.

Saying nothing about the Capitol Investment you will need in Equipment, Machinery, Hand tools, etc. you will need to turn Wood Block, Metal, and other Assorted Materials into finished Salable cue....

I notice that you joined this forum less than 5 months ago and have made 1,113 posts. That's about seven a day. I was just wondering if in any of those posts you have added any content worth remembering or have they all been, like I've been reading in this link, nothing more than criticism by someone with an apparent attitude problem.

Dick

[JoeyInCali]

I notice that you joined this forum less than 5 months ago and have made 1,113 posts. That's about seven a day. I was just wondering if in any of those posts you have added any content worth remembering or have they all been, like I've been reading in this link, nothing more than criticism by someone with an apparent attitude problem.

Dick
Bruce will probably get banned again and will register under another alias.
Has anyone here met Bruce in person btw?
P.S. Actually Joey I am totally surprised you are not at the Hopkins Expo observing the Craft of Cue Building, as I understand that is where the Best of the Best ALL Display their Cues one a year... Plus all the Big time buyers from Off Shore come to purchase from the best of the best

Observing the craft of cue building? What, they're making cues inside that building?

[ShaneS]

PoolSleuth,

Not to overstep my bounds, but Joey trained under one of the top current cuemakers- Kerry Zeiler- and best cuemaker in the Phillipines- Edwin Reyes. Plus, he is one of the nicest cuemakers that I have ever dealt with, and is easily one of the most respectable guys on this forum. Also, I believe Joey knows more about machines and machining than most professional machinists, and likewise with cuemaking and cuemakers.

If you would like to see quality craftsmanship, send me an email address. I would be glad to show you an example or two of Joey's cues.

-ShaneS






I think you are just a Keyboard Commando want to be Cuemaker who makes claim you can not back up....:)

[Gerald]

He is not at the Expo because he is finishing my Bubinga cue and has already served his apprenticeship and makes a great hitting cue. How about you?

[Jon]

^^^^^
I think he is happy with his HOUSE CUE.

:D

[bandido]

Lemme consult with a lawyer before I name two of them for you.

Here's one that you won't need a lawywr for. When I was in transition from doing Level1 to Level2 cues (early 90s when Prather's only had photocopied catalogs), I bought a 6point high-low from Prather's to better understand how I think pointwork is done. Thank goodness that they were around then as I didn't have the luxury of having internet instant info and guidance plus proximity to an experienced cuemaker.

Now, #2 is ....LOL!

[olsonsview]

A good place to start cue building if a local craftsman is not possible is Chris Hightowers excellent book. He also has videos, as do others, but a book is easier to refer to and goes into more nuances of the craft and art of cuebuilding. His site is at: http://www.cuesmith.com/index.php?page=home
He sells simple lathes to do the job. I prefer metal lathes myself, but it helps to have one before yah start, if not so lucky, then look closely at his equipment, very practical stuff.

[PoolSleuth]

Observing the craft of cue building? What, they're making cues inside that building?


The work of builders is what shold have said.

BTW I seem many are selling Part for Cue Assembly.

http://www.customcuemaker.com/links.htm

Above is another site with quite a FEW Cue Parts Sellers.

[PoolSleuth]

Bruce will probably get banned again and will register under another alias.




Well I think you better check the BANNED LIST their, as I think the So Cal Air is cause you is interfering with your thought process. There is no “Bruce” on it. So it got to be all that SMOG is So Cal getting to you


I live in So. Cal in the 50-80’s and that Air is Really Bad for your Health. Glad to be away from that Air.

Also our Moderator Mr. Wilson stay right on top of people who were BANNED, and Try to rejoin the Forum. They get booted again....

[JoeyInCali]

Well I think you better check the BANNED LIST their, as I think the So Cal Air is cause you is interfering with your thought process. There is no “Bruce” on it. So it got to be all that SMOG is So Cal getting to you


I live in So. Cal in the 50-80’s and that Air is Really Bad for your Health. Glad to be away from that Air.

Also our Moderator Mr. Wilson stay right on top of people who were BANNED, and Try to rejoin the Forum. They get booted again....
http://forums.azbilliards.com/member.php?u=5660
Somehow Bruce the ahole no longer shows any posts. Even though he posted here a ton and acted like a bitter old fart.
The smog is not getting to me. You are.

[PoolSleuth]

PoolSleuth,

Not to overstep my bounds, but Joey trained under one of the top current cuemakers- Kerry Zeiler- and best cuemaker in the Phillipines- Edwin Reyes. Plus, he is one of the nicest cuemakers that I have ever dealt with, and is easily one of the most respectable guys on this forum. Also, I believe Joey knows more about machines and machining than most professional machinists, and likewise with cuemaking and cuemakers.

If you would like to see quality craftsmanship, send me an email address. I would be glad to show you an example or two of Joey's cues.

-ShaneS

Well I know Joey works with or trained under Kerry Zeiler, but you have added information to his RESUME.

I would like to see the Two Cue, so Post em her so other can also see em.

Thanks....

[PoolSleuth]

http://forums.azbilliards.com/member.php?u=5660
Somehow Bruce the **** no longer shows any posts. Even though he posted here

Think that is called a COMPUTER GLICH....:)

[cubswin]

~sitting here wondering why poolsleuth finds the fact that some makers use prathers parts something to get his panties in bunch about....after all why would prather sell parts if they weren't being used...damn that logic~

[PoolSleuth]

~sitting here wondering why poolsleuth finds the fact that some makers use prathers parts something to get his panties in bunch about....after all why would prather sell parts if they weren't being used...damn that logic~


Well I hope you want an honest answer from my perspective. I consider Cuemaker an Artform, and many Cuemakers to me are artists who start with RAW MATERIAL, a Shop Full of Machinery, and take those RAW MATERIAL & TOOLS and CREATE Functional Art (that being a Great Playing, Great Looking Cue).


If some Cuemaker are giving customers the impression they are Scratch Builder, and ONLY PART Assemblers this is wrong to me. They are not builders, but Parts, or Components ASSEMBLERS.

As it is akin in my mind to comparing the works of a Great Painter who start with a Blank Canvass, and Oil or Water Colors, compared with someone who Paints by Numbers, filling in Outlines with Paints.

Was not until several months ago did I realize that anyone could purchased Pre Fabricated Cue Butt Sections & Forearm Sections complete with Points, and Colored Veneers. Than assemble these component into a Cue.

Maybe I have an appreciation for what I call real art, & artists as my 88 y/o neighbor is a man who can turn a block of BASSWOOD into what looks like a Living Bird of any Species with his hands, hand tools, and paint and brush.

Part of my appreciation for these Artists is I am mostly a KLUTZ, who armed with Wood, Tool, or an Artists Brush could never create much of anything except Scrap Wood Suitable for Kindling to start a Fire....

[JoeyInCali]

Was not until several months ago did I realize that anyone could purchased Pre Fabricated Cue Butt Sections & Forearm Sections complete with Points, and Colored Veneers. Than assemble these component into a Cue.



You knew that?
And you call me a Keyboard Commando for mentioning it?
What is your agenda Bruce?
You wanted me to name names I knew who bought them and sold them as cues?
If you have half the brain a man of your age should have, you knew full well I couldn't do that.
Why don't you call Prather? And I dare you to put their names here.
Lemme see how fast those makers get on your arse.
Then you can stop stalking me.
Put me in your ignore list.
Do that Poolsleuth FKA Bruce De Lis.

[cubswin]

~laughing~ so you've been harassing Joey because you thought that would somehow get you a answer about cuemakers you don't want to purchase cues from?

And with your logic some of the all time great cue's wouldn't be art. Could've sworn you had in your name last week that you wanted a balabushka. Which probably would have had a Spain blank. Some of the most sought after cues in the world were made with someone elses blanks. Doesn't mean it isn't a good or even great cue. And that the "assembler" isn't very very talented in the parts they do make.

[hadjcues]

Well I hope you want an honest answer from my perspective. I consider Cuemaker an Artform, and many Cuemakers to me are artists who start with RAW MATERIAL, a Shop Full of Machinery, and take those RAW MATERIAL & TOOLS and CREATE Functional Art (that being a Great Playing, Great Looking Cue).


If some Cuemaker are giving customers the impression they are Scratch Builder, and ONLY PART Assemblers this is wrong to me. They are not builders, but Parts, or Components ASSEMBLERS.

As it is akin in my mind to comparing the works of a Great Painter who start with a Blank Canvass, and Oil or Water Colors, compared with someone who Paints by Numbers, filling in Outlines with Paints.

Was not until several months ago did I realize that anyone could purchased Pre Fabricated Cue Butt Sections & Forearm Sections complete with Points, and Colored Veneers. Than assemble these component into a Cue.

Maybe I have an appreciation for what I call real art, & artists as my 88 y/o neighbor is a man who can turn a block of BASSWOOD into what looks like a Living Bird of any Species with his hands, hand tools, and paint and brush.

Part of my appreciation for these Artists is I am mostly a KLUTZ, who armed with Wood, Tool, or an Artists Brush could never create much of anything except Scrap Wood Suitable for Kindling to start a Fire....

I don't understand why does it matter to you so much?! It is a fact that some cuemakers choose to take that path... others choose to walk the hard way and learn the process as they evolve as craftsmen... to each his own I guess...

Don't see anything wrong with what Joey posted here...

Hadjcues

[bandido]

Well I hope you want an honest answer from my perspective. I consider Cuemaker an Artform, and many Cuemakers to me are artists who start with RAW MATERIAL, a Shop Full of Machinery, and take those RAW MATERIAL & TOOLS and CREATE Functional Art (that being a Great Playing, Great Looking Cue).


If some Cuemaker are giving customers the impression they are Scratch Builder, and ONLY PART Assemblers this is wrong to me. They are not builders, but Parts, or Components ASSEMBLERS.

As it is akin in my mind to comparing the works of a Great Painter who start with a Blank Canvass, and Oil or Water Colors, compared with someone who Paints by Numbers, filling in Outlines with Paints.

Was not until several months ago did I realize that anyone could purchased Pre Fabricated Cue Butt Sections & Forearm Sections complete with Points, and Colored Veneers. Than assemble these component into a Cue.

Maybe I have an appreciation for what I call real art, & artists as my 88 y/o neighbor is a man who can turn a block of BASSWOOD into what looks like a Living Bird of any Species with his hands, hand tools, and paint and brush.

Part of my appreciation for these Artists is I am mostly a KLUTZ, who armed with Wood, Tool, or an Artists Brush could never create much of anything except Scrap Wood Suitable for Kindling to start a Fire....
I agree with you and this is what cuecrafting is all about. Your post is also what a cue crafting enthusiast agrees with. Thus you are talking about pieces that come from "and your rule applies to" experienced cuecraftsmen.

I suggest then that with such parameters that it will be safer for you to be very careful when considering a purchase from a relatively new cuemaker who pumps out these 4-6 point veneered cues and sneaky pete's. I think that it is just common sense that can guide you.

Here is some info for you.
Higher level cuecraftsmen have stashed (5+ years) wood and have learned to select the proper piece to use from sifting through his pile and closely observing them. Remember, the wood parts used all come from huge trees so they needed to be aged and processed (time element) then slowly trimmed down close to useable dimensions before they're even considered being used in ones work and time consuming creation.

The level of craftsmanship that goes into these pieces require years of practice. Having been a machinist doesn't guarantee an "express" way in reaching this level. Wood and its relation to the other associated materials used in cuecrafting requires a different level of intellectual approach.

Those who've used pre-made parts may have different reasons for doing such and these may possibly be some reasons:
1. For educational purposes.
2. Cut down on capital expense (machinery)
3. To speed up the possibility of saving enough to buy the equipment needed.
4. To be able to offer these level cues while ageing and preparing his raw material stock.
5. Then there's- To heck with it, lower capital and training expense and higher profit margin. Or, my reputation still can't command what I think my time is worth in producing such level cues.

[hadjcues]

I agree with Edwin... some cuemakers have their own reasons for doing so...
takes years to master the art.. I myself am Kinda surprised to see new cuemakers, less than a year or so experience - turning out 4 pt V spliced w/ veneered cues... some prolly do it on pre-set up equipment or cue lathe... some with high level inlays... I guess it all depends also on the availability of machinery and stuff...

[StormHotRod300]

Ok, i dont have a clue on how to actually build a cue, but if you had the right equipment and spent sometime learning from a cue builder, i think even Gomer Pyle could make a sneaky pete lol.

Now i came upon HighTowers website and looked at the cue machines he has for sale and basically some of the machines come with layouts you can put into the machines and have cut outa of the wood, and the machine can also cut the exotic woods you are using for inlays,veneers and designs too.

So its basically a case of having enough money to buy the right equipment, and woods and parts, and basically anyone could turn out a high quality looking cue, and they might have been making cues for only a couple of months.

dave

[bandido]

Ok, i dont have a clue on how to actually build a cue, but if you had the right equipment and spent sometime learning from a cue builder, i think even Gomer Pyle could make a sneaky pete lol.

Now i came upon HighTowers website and looked at the cue machines he has for sale and basically some of the machines come with layouts you can put into the machines and have cut outa of the wood, and the machine can also cut the exotic woods you are using for inlays,veneers and designs too.

So its basically a case of having enough money to buy the right equipment, and woods and parts,and basically anyone could turn out a high quality looking cue, and they might have been making cues for only a couple of months.

dave
A cue is a tool of function. A quality cue is a tool expected to function at a higher level of performance demand and beauty. It should bring a higher degree of confidence, satisfaction and pride to the owner.

See my sig.

[JoeyInCali]

I agree with Edwin... some cuemakers have their own reasons for doing so...
takes years to master the art.. I myself am Kinda surprised to see new cuemakers, less than a year or so experience - turning out 4 pt V spliced w/ veneered cues... some prolly do it on pre-set up equipment or cue lathe... some with high level inlays... I guess it all depends also on the availability of machinery and stuff...
Exactly.
If one assembler can't make his own v-pointed blanks, I wouldn't expect his points to be even close to being even.
Heck, those blanks don't even look that hot coming in.
Bruce took my post and made a mountain of it. Then he lists more sources.:rolleyes: Then he says he found out months ago these blanks were available. Great. But he branded my posting as talking trash. OK, that's IDIOTIC. What freakin' trash? I'm not selling cues here and did not badmouth a maker.
I SUGGESTED to the original poster buying blanks from Prather is an option.
I don't expect the poor guy to buy a mill and cnc machine if he wanted to make cues with points and/or inlays. And I mentioned several makers buys these blanks. Bruce then has a constipation.
Bruce a day or two ago had Looking for A Balabushka in his signature and suddenly he took it out.
Why Bruce? B/c you found out Bushka bought blanks from Spain?
Btw, I do not know of ONE cuemaker who commands high respect and uses Prather blanks. Not ONE. Mostly hacks.
I've come across two assemblers here who assembled a few Prather blanks into cues. One had a few friend buy those blanks as well.

[StormHotRod300]

Bandido,

Oh i know exactly what you mean.

I just found it interesting that if you had the money, and bought CNC machines and lathe's and all this stuff, and learned how to build a cue from a reputable builder.

That you could just use these machines and turn out high quality looking cues, when the person has only been making cues for a couple months.

Instead of going through the process like Bludworth or Gilbert does for example.

And yes the cue maybe high quality looking but plays like junk. Or it looks like junk and plays like a dream lol. Funny how that happens every now n then.

dave

[bandido]

Bandido,

Oh i know exactly what you mean.

I just found it interesting that if you had the money, and bought CNC machines and lathe's and all this stuff, and learned how to build a cue from a reputable builder.

That you could just use these machines and turn out high quality looking cues, when the person has only been making cues for a couple months.

Instead of going through the process like Bludworth or Gilbert does for example.

And yes the cue maybe high quality looking but plays like junk. Or it looks like junk and plays like a dream lol. Funny how that happens every now n then.

dave
I understand where you're coming from but you seem to have forgotten a real life occurance. This is in no way a disrespect to the person that I will refer to. I view his experience as a lesson for craftsmen, wannabe-craftsmen and the consumers.

Just recall the story OK. Pro-player that even worked under a prominent production cue manufacturer and was also claimed as a student of one of our very own. He had the resources to equipt himself with hi-tech machinery.....I'm glad he's earning a lot at what he's doing now. God bless him for having been instrumental in that prestigious tour.

[Hidy Ho]

I think he wants to move upto 2000 posts by end of this month :D

[PoolSleuth]

I agree with you and this is what cuecrafting is all about. Your post is also what a cue crafting enthusiast agrees with. Thus you are talking about pieces that come from "and your rule applies to" experienced cuecraftsmen.

I suggest then that with such parameters that it will be safer for you to be very careful when considering a purchase from a relatively new cuemaker who pumps out these 4-6 point veneered cues and sneaky pete's. I think that it is just common sense that can guide you.

Here is some info for you.
Higher level cuecraftsmen have stashed (5+ years) wood and have learned to select the proper piece to use from sifting through his pile and closely observing them. Remember, the wood parts used all come from huge trees so they needed to be aged and processed (time element) then slowly trimmed down close to useable dimensions before they're even considered being used in ones work and time consuming creation.

The level of craftsmanship that goes into these pieces require years of practice. Having been a machinist doesn't guarantee an "express" way in reaching this level. Wood and its relation to the other associated materials used in cuecrafting requires a different level of intellectual approach.

Those who've used pre-made parts may have different reasons for doing such and these may possibly be some reasons:
1. For educational purposes.
2. Cut down on capital expense (machinery)
3. To speed up the possibility of saving enough to buy the equipment needed.
4. To be able to offer these level cues while ageing and preparing his raw material stock.
5. Then there's- To heck with it, lower capital and training expense and higher profit margin. Or, my reputation still can't command what I think my time is worth in producing such level cues.


Well I am glad someone agrees with part of my reasoning...:D

BTW bandido nice New Web-site.....

[WilleeCue]

How easy is it to make your own cue from scratch and what type of materials and machines do you need as I have seen some of the cues on here and I would really love to design and make my own.

Here is one way to get what you want ....

Take a weeks vacation and come on down to Corpus Christi, Texas.
There is a lot for your family to do and see here and while they are out enjoying the local attractions you can be in my shop making your cue and learning first hand the answers to your questions.
A cue you made yourself will have a lot more value than the money you spend making it.

It would go something like this:

Mon ... Design and rough up of cue and shaft.
Tue ... Making parts, assembly and gluing.
Wed ... Inlay and finial butt tapering
Thur ... Fitting shaft, sanding and finishing.
Fri ... buff out and ready for action.

[WilleeCue]

I agree with Edwin... some cuemakers have their own reasons for doing so...
takes years to master the art.. I myself am Kinda surprised to see new cuemakers, less than a year or so experience - turning out 4 pt V spliced w/ veneered cues... some prolly do it on pre-set up equipment or cue lathe... some with high level inlays... I guess it all depends also on the availability of machinery and stuff...

Dont use the term "Master" lightly.
There are really only a handfull of true master cuemakers alive today.

How long does it take someone to learn how to make a basic cue?

It really depends on the equipment, access to information, and most of all the persons apptitude and skills.
I am talking a solid well made basic cue here with a wrap and perhaps even some veneered points, not a $10,000 cue decked out in 300 ivory inlays, silver, rubys and emeralds.
Cuemaking, contrary to popular opinion is not hard to learn or do.
Not today.
However, people are different and what some can learn it in a month others may take years to get it.
If you have never tried cuemaking then you have no real idea of how hard or easy it really is.
Dont discount the skills of a cuemaker just because he has only been making cues for a year or two.
If you can not hold a cue in your hands, shoot with it a while, and judge for yourself its quality then YOU need to learn more about what makes one cue better than another.

[WilleeCue]

Btw, I do not know of ONE cuemaker who commands high respect and uses Prather blanks. Not ONE. Mostly hacks.


Uhhhh .... perhaps Prather?
I think he uses them.

Joey, it aint so much what you use as it is what you end up with.
Can you understand what I am saying here?

I certinaly understand the concept of garbage in equals garbage out but Prather's forearms are not garbage.

[cuewould]

Well I have read this entire thread and may I say WOW WOW WOW I have been researching cue making and makers for over 8 years I am just now ready to start making cues BUT BUT BUT what Willeecue just said about going to his shop and makeing a cue was GREAT I CAN THINK BACK TO A TIME WHEN NO ONE WOULD SPEEK OF HOW THEY DID WHAT .I'v been a custom cabinet maker and furniture builder for over 20 years and have had a lot of help but this cue building bit is very different ... way to go WILLEECUE you really are a class act .....Ray

[Cuedog]

A cue is a tool of function. A quality cue is a tool expected to function at a higher level of performance demand and beauty. It should bring a higher degree of confidence, satisfaction and pride to the owner.




TAP, TAP, TAP!!! Well said.

Gene

[billiardshot]

How easy is it to make your own cue from scratch and what type of materials and machines do you need as I have seen some of the cues on here and I would really love to design and make my own.

Buy cuebuilding videos/books - that on the market - and study. Or check out Dieckman website http://www.cuemaker.com and get in shop/on hand teaching.

[cueman]

Exactly.
Btw, I do not know of ONE cuemaker who commands high respect and uses Prather blanks. Not ONE. Mostly hacks.
.
This is because Jeff will not tell who buys from him. I think you would be very surprised if you could see who really gets blanks from Prather. I will not say who I know that uses them, but believe me you would be surprised. One who has passed on already is Verl Horn. I don't think I would put him in the "Hack" category. Another is myself and you can place me in that category if you wish. I still have about 5 or 6 Prather blanks I have had around for many years as well as Spain and Titlist blanks. I will use any of those if someone wants that color and will pay what I want for the cue. If they want another color I will make them from scratch and make the points longer. The Spain blanks will not go in anything under $3000 so don't flood me with emails asking to buy the blanks.
Chris
www.cuesmith.com
www.internationalcuemakers.com

[robertno1pool]

What about a "Build or Bust" for cues where a well known cue maker furnishes the materials and shop to build a cue in a month. Only thing is, the cuemaker can not show them how to build the cue. If they can finish the cue to the cuemaker's minimum standards and run a rack of 9- ball before the deadline, they get to keep the cue.:D

[rhncue]

What about a "Build or Bust" for cues where a well known cue maker furnishes the materials and shop to build a cue in a month. Only thing is, the cuemaker can not show them how to build the cue. If they can finish the cue to the cuemaker's minimum standards and run a rack of 9- ball before the deadline, they get to keep the cue.:D


That sounds great for the recipient of the supplies, shop time and finished cue, if he survives. I've been building cues for 15 years and working on them for over twice that long and I won't let anyone even pick up a screw-driver in my shop and I never will. Lathes, mills, saw machines and everything else in a shop is very dangerous to use. If an accident occurs the person is extremely lucky if he only loses an arm.

So that is something I just can't wait to do, to set some inexpeirenced individual loose in my shop, use my equipment, my materials to build a cue for themselves and then turn around and have to try to explain to a judge why the man shouldn't be allowed to take my shop, equipment, house and all savings both present and future for me allowing him to cut his finger on my equipment.
Dick

[JoeyInCali]

That sounds great for the recipient of the supplies, shop time and finished cue, if he survives. I've been building cues for 15 years and working on them for over twice that long and I won't let anyone even pick up a screw-driver in my shop and I never will. Lathes, mills, saw machines and everything else in a shop is very dangerous to use. If an accident occurs the person is extremely lucky if he only loses an arm.

So that is something I just can't wait to do, to set some inexpeirenced individual loose in my shop, use my equipment, my materials to build a cue for themselves and then turn around and have to try to explain to a judge why the man shouldn't be allowed to take my shop, equipment, house and all savings both present and future for me allowing him to cut his finger on my equipment.
Dick
Tap, tap, tap.
Joey~Has fractured right middle-finger ( lathe cover went down on his fingernail ) and 5 stitches on his left index finger ( stupidity, don't ask ) and can't count the little nicks and scratches, the last 4 months ~
You wanna build your cues? Go see Bill Stroud and shake his hand. You might quit right there.:eek:

[olsonsview]

Too many people have no common sense around tools. And large equipment like a lathe or mill are so much more dangerous than even a circular saw. They run so smoothly one thinks they are quite benign until that little accident shows us the power that can be unleashed. I have worked around equipment all my life and I still have some close calls!

[billiardshot]

That sounds great for the recipient of the supplies, shop time and finished cue, if he survives. I've been building cues for 15 years and working on them for over twice that long and I won't let anyone even pick up a screw-driver in my shop and I never will. Lathes, mills, saw machines and everything else in a shop is very dangerous to use. If an accident occurs the person is extremely lucky if he only loses an arm.

So that is something I just can't wait to do, to set some inexpeirenced individual loose in my shop, use my equipment, my materials to build a cue for themselves and then turn around and have to try to explain to a judge why the man shouldn't be allowed to take my shop, equipment, house and all savings both present and future for me allowing him to cut his finger on my equipment.
Dick

I don't know if this been discuss before or should be under a new thread. But what affect on homeowner insurance coverage or type of insurance would one need for cuemaking whether at home or in another building?:(

[rhncue]

I don't know if this been discuss before or should be under a new thread. But what affect on homeowner insurance coverage or type of insurance would one need for cuemaking whether at home or in another building?:(

I've mentioned this before but I don't know if it was on this forum. Many people are doing there cue building and repair in their basement or garage. If there is ever a fire then they are in for a big surprise as home owners insuarance will not cover any damages if the insuarance carriers find out there was a business there. It is very hard and expensive to get fire insuarance for a wood working shop, let alone a residence. At one shop I had I had to agree to have No Smoking signs, install a vacum system to collect all the dust at it's source, use a water born finish, which I lied about and used a Urethane finish, and the insuarance rep made surprize visits every now and then and they still didn't want to insure the place.

There also are fire codes and building codes limiting just what you are allowed to do on residential property.

Dick

[Solartje]

to come back to an old topic....


ive loved to build my architecture plans from scrap pieces of wood and use my hands to make into a greath looking scale model. im still young, and dont got time to even think about starting to make cue's, but its something i was planning for in a year or 25.

now i got an extra problem. i Live in Europe, belgium. there are exactly 0 poolcuemakers here... and i dont think there are any others in surrounding countries. (exept maybe in germany, but my german is SO bad, i wouldnt even understand the man).

So my question : (in fact more a reality slap i need, before i go out on spending money on video's books)

- i was thinking of reading and checking out video's and reading this forum for the next couple of years to get some basic understanding.
- after i got the basics covered, i would be probably ask this forum if there is a cuemaker that would be interested in teaching me the skills. (i could take a 2 week -cuebuilding vacation to the states) he wouldnt have to be scared of losing business because... will i live 20k miles away :D
- now problems.
A/ the gear to make the cue. i know u can get good cuebuilding lathe's etc from websites like chrisses... but shipping it to europe??? dont think its even possible.
B/ so i thought.. might get the gear from a cuebuilder who stops, visit him, let him teach me the skills, buy his gear, put it all in one BIG container, have it shipped by boath, and then unload it here. but is that even payable? (ok this comes by once in a lifetime, but hey... guess what.. ive got 1 lifetime to spend and wait for this chance...)
c/ i dont got the skills to build or convert lathe's i find here..d/ the reason why i want to be one of the first cuebuilders in my country of the new era (2k+), is that im looking for a hobby for in my later days. (when ill be 50 or older...) i still have 20 years to go, so it gives me more then enough time to start doing the research work.. (by then i should have a very very nice income, and lets say $ wouldnt be a problem... im ready to spend some k's $ by then to start a business. ive got 20y to save for it.. so even if i safe lets say 50$ bucks /month, by then i should have MORE then enough... i could even start collecting woods.. and season them for 10 or more years...

so my question: could you tell me wich points in my post will be impossible? i know its VERY though for people who live in the states, but how hard is it for a european guy... is my dream possible? or should i find annother hobbie?

[bandido]

to come back to an old topic....


ive loved to build my architecture plans from scrap pieces of wood and use my hands to make into a greath looking scale model. im still young, and dont got time to even think about starting to make cue's, but its something i was planning for in a year or 25.

now i got an extra problem. i Live in Europe, belgium. there are exactly 0 poolcuemakers here... and i dont think there are any others in surrounding countries. (exept maybe in germany, but my german is SO bad, i wouldnt even understand the man).

So my question : (in fact more a reality slap i need, before i go out on spending money on video's books)

- i was thinking of reading and checking out video's and reading this forum for the next couple of years to get some basic understanding.
- after i got the basics covered, i would be probably ask this forum if there is a cuemaker that would be interested in teaching me the skills. (i could take a 2 week -cuebuilding vacation to the states) he wouldnt have to be scared of losing business because... will i live 20k miles away :D
- now problems.
A/ the gear to make the cue. i know u can get good cuebuilding lathe's etc from websites like chrisses... but shipping it to europe??? dont think its even possible.
B/ so i thought.. might get the gear from a cuebuilder who stops, visit him, let him teach me the skills, buy his gear, put it all in one BIG container, have it shipped by boath, and then unload it here. but is that even payable? (ok this comes by once in a lifetime, but hey... guess what.. ive got 1 lifetime to spend and wait for this chance...)
c/ i dont got the skills to build or convert lathe's i find here..d/ the reason why i want to be one of the first cuebuilders in my country of the new era (2k+), is that im looking for a hobby for in my later days. (when ill be 50 or older...) i still have 20 years to go, so it gives me more then enough time to start doing the research work.. (by then i should have a very very nice income, and lets say $ wouldnt be a problem... im ready to spend some k's $ by then to start a business. ive got 20y to save for it.. so even if i safe lets say 50$ bucks /month, by then i should have MORE then enough... i could even start collecting woods.. and season them for 10 or more years...

so my question: could you tell me wich points in my post will be impossible? i know its VERY though for people who live in the states, but how hard is it for a european guy... is my dream possible? or should i find annother hobbie?

You just being here and participating in this discussion shows your interest in the craft but how interested is the hard part to answer. If your interest in the craft as a craft is of a higher level then you should be starting right now. At least reading up on it and checking out construction systems, including info from related industries, and dismantling broken cues. Learn about the materials used and start collecting them.

Your mention of "0 cuemakers there" and speculation on how you'll capitalize your interest" shows your other reason which is its financial return. Do a feasibility study! Take into consideration too that being a pioneer has its benefits. If you decide later when somebody already "did" and have nothing to offer other than lower pricing then you'll soon realize that your reputation, brought about by lower pricing, won't last long. You'll soon need to add equipment and materials that you'll need to figure in on your pricing structure. What happens to you, who has nothing uniquely you to offer" when some new guy with lower prices tosses his hat into the arena?

--more but think about the above first--

[bob_bushka]

They do make nice forearm blanks.....I wonder if George Balabushka used Spains or Zamboti's forearms.....mmmmmmmmmmmmm. Wasn't George more of a cue assembler? Anyway I just played with a Rat cue a friend of mine got it fairly cheap,,,I'm not quite sure of the build but I can assure you the hit was fantastic. I have hit Bender to Southwest to Josswest but this Rat, with the exception of the $4000 Bender is the best cue I've boinked in a long time. Maybe the cue was a one time anamoly but it was sweet.

[DaveK]

c/ i dont got the skills to build or convert lathe's i find here..

I would think that this is exactly why you should get a metal lathe locally. You need to develop machining skills and jig-making skills, and converting a lathe slowly might be just the ticket to learning. Another way to look at this is for maintainability. If you purchase a purpose-built cue lathe from the States and it breaks or needs modification, without the ability to do the work yourself you'll have to rely on the US manufacturer (with all the delay and expense associated with that). If you learn to do your own machine work these maintenance issues pretty much go away.

jmo

Dave

PS Congratulations on the new job !

[Solartje]

thx davec!

mm never thought about upgrades or problems if i would ship them from the states. i guess best would be to watch cuebuilding video's and read books so i know what my machines have to be able to do, and then try to find out how i could use local machinery.

bandido: maybe i expressed myself wrong. $ is not one of the reasons i would start it. i know VERY well this is not the business u want to do if u want to earn money. like i said, with the new job, ill be having a nice income, and this would be purely a hobby. an expensive one for sure, but as long as i can afford it, why not.i can still sell my cue's here on the forum, and other places, but i just want to make nice cue's. i love designing them, and id love to build them. if people want to buy them, COOL :p if not , ill just put them on display in my 'yet to build' house. being one of the first custom makers would only be an extra reason to start it. cuebuilding is just a small part of my huge passion for the game. id even love to build a table one day, after reading a post here on how to build one. id love to do EVERYTHING. some dreams ill never be able to do, some i will. only time will tell. i know the road will be even harder over here to travel then in the states seeing the lack of experienced people that could teach me.

ill have to learn alot by trial and error, and probably more errors then trials. :) but hey, rome wasnt build in a day. one thing i already know is how to use autocad designs for CNC's from my architecture background.

i still got one thing that could help, and thats a local woodartist that has lathe's i can use for free. i could start like most did with some basic housecue's and learn to work with the machines. seeing how hard it is to find good wood for shafts etc, i could already start seasoning them now, so i would have enough for when the real works starts.

with the increased use of videocamera's etc, i know it will be easyer to learn from distance compared to 40 y ago. and id love to visit the states and meet and learn some cuemakers. (ps those who offer clases still are expensive... and for some reason id prefere to learn it from somewhone who does it purely to share his knowledge and out of passion. more a master-student relationship then a $-experience relationship) i remember one cuebuilder once posting here on azb he would teach one person how to build cue's for free (well not totally free, im using woods etc, but u get the idea)this is the spirit i like, and i hope when ill visit the states, some people will still have the same spirit and takeme under there wing.

AND i love this forum!! all the posts here are AMAZING. sometims its hard to understand what people are saying, seeing that im not native english and some technical terms sound like chinese to me, but thats a matter of time, and being 30y next summer, ive got PLENTY of time :D



ps!!! mmm got an idea, i could take a local course woodbuilding or something. im sure somewhere i can find that. it would be a greath place to start.!!

[bandido]

ps!!! mmm got an idea, i could take a local course woodbuilding or something. im sure somewhere i can find that. it would be a greath place to start.!!
This is a brilliant idea! One that falls under the "related industries" that I mentioned. This can also familiarize you with details of your native woodcraft designs. It's something that you can incorporate into your cuemaking and definitely something that can set you apart. I did just that by using a lot of the local hardwoods instead of imported ones or the usual cuemaking woods. I also used different locally available shells and shied away from the faux shell slabs. I also developed my own design style/system which are "shadows" and the color scrim on carving. Hoping that this gives you some ideas.

[Vahmurka]

Solartje, there is a cuemaker much closer than you think. It is Tom Penrose, registered here as 'Penrose Cues'. Probably you could try to contact him first on your matter, as it would save you money for a trip over the ocean for the first time. At least you could learn woodworking basics in regard with cuemaking rom him.

[WilleeCue]

How easy is it to make your own cue from scratch and what type of materials and machines do you need as I have seen some of the cues on here and I would really love to design and make my own.

If you want to make your own cue the best way to go is get with a cuemaker that will let you into his shop and help you make it.
Arnot Wadsworth is one such cuemaker.

http://www.arnotq.com/

He makes his living as a cuemaker and time spent teaching or helping is time taken away from working on someone's custom cue so do not expect his time to be free.
However, you will come away with a nice custom cue that you had a large hand in making, get to learn the entire process from start to finish, and have a good idea of what kind of equipment you will need to start your own shop.

I have done this twice in the past and both people were very happy with what they learned and the cue they made.
It is possiable that this summer May - June - July - Aug I will be available to do this again if someone is interested.
It takes about 7 days to make a modest custom cue but there are also some nice attractions here in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Fishing,
the beaches, texas Aquarium, the Lexington, some good pool halls, and Robin Adair's pool pro shop.

[WilleeCue]

Btw, I do not know of ONE cuemaker who commands high respect and uses Prather blanks. Not ONE.

I have told you before, Joey.
Dont Mr. Prather count as a respected cuemaker?
He makes all his cues using Prather blanks.

I think the whole argument of cuemaker / assembler is silly to start with.
The real measure of a cuemakers skill is right there in the finished product.
It is either up to par or it is not.
I would think that a cuemaker who used inferior parts and finished with a superior cue would be considered a master of the craft.

I know ... you are asking how can a superior cue be made from inferior parts?
The answer is ... with the knowledge and skill to identify and correct the flaws.
That is what separates the master cuemakers from the assemblers.

Am i a master cuemaker ?
I think not ... but ... that is not for me to judge.
I feel I am just a humble cuemaker doing the best he can with what he has.

[skins]

i know i'm chiming in late but has anyone seen this

Cue Polishing Incident (http://www.insidepoolmag.com/forums/pool-billiard-discussion-forum/1265-cue-polishing-disaster.html)

making a cue only seems easy enough. this is just one disaster among a myriad that can happen if you don't have good training on the methods and equipment.

[cueman]

i know i'm chiming in late but has anyone seen this

Cue Polishing Incident (http://www.insidepoolmag.com/forums/pool-billiard-discussion-forum/1265-cue-polishing-disaster.html)

making a cue only seems easy enough. this is just one disaster among a myriad that can happen if you don't have good training on the methods and equipment.
Yes I saw it and that image was going through my head all the time I was doing a couple of polishing methods that are a little risky on a $12,000 cue I completed yesterday. I guess I am a little to set in my ways to change, but I do some things to the end of the cue with it only secured it the mandrel and nothing against the butt of the cue. This allows me to get inside the rubber bumper cavity without having to reset things up with a collet. It is risky but I have done it who knows how many times. But his picture was still a sobering thought as I was doing it yesterday.
Chris
www.hightowercues.com
www.internationalcuemakers.com

[ratcues]

Wow, this thread got way off point. Here's my advice. Buy a small machine and learn the basics by doing cue repair. When you feel comfortable with that, move up to making SPs. Build up your machinery as you go by reinvesting your profits back into your business.

Its hard to jump headfirst into cuemaking. Crawl before you walk, walk before you run.....

[cueman]

Wow, this thread got way off point. Here's my advice. Buy a small machine and learn the basics by doing cue repair. When you feel comfortable with that, move up to making SPs. Build up your machinery as you go by reinvesting your profits back into your business.

Its hard to jump headfirst into cuemaking. Crawl before you walk, walk before you run.....
This is great advice. If you are going to make the mistake seen in the above link it is better to do it on a SP than that cue. If you do some basic repairs first you will probably know your lathe well enough to not ever make that mistake. Also by doing repairs you will learn more construction methods, than someone who was taught just one single way of doing things, like many cuemakers are.
Chris
www.hightowercues.com
www.internationalcuemakers.com

[Sev]

to come back to an old topic....


ive loved to build my architecture plans from scrap pieces of wood and use my hands to make into a greath looking scale model. im still young, and dont got time to even think about starting to make cue's, but its something i was planning for in a year or 25.

now i got an extra problem. i Live in Europe, belgium. there are exactly 0 poolcuemakers here... and i dont think there are any others in surrounding countries. (exept maybe in germany, but my german is SO bad, i wouldnt even understand the man).

So my question : (in fact more a reality slap i need, before i go out on spending money on video's books)

- i was thinking of reading and checking out video's and reading this forum for the next couple of years to get some basic understanding.
- after i got the basics covered, i would be probably ask this forum if there is a cuemaker that would be interested in teaching me the skills. (i could take a 2 week -cuebuilding vacation to the states) he wouldnt have to be scared of losing business because... will i live 20k miles away :D
- now problems.
A/ the gear to make the cue. i know u can get good cuebuilding lathe's etc from websites like chrisses... but shipping it to europe??? dont think its even possible.
B/ so i thought.. might get the gear from a cuebuilder who stops, visit him, let him teach me the skills, buy his gear, put it all in one BIG container, have it shipped by boath, and then unload it here. but is that even payable? (ok this comes by once in a lifetime, but hey... guess what.. ive got 1 lifetime to spend and wait for this chance...)
c/ i dont got the skills to build or convert lathe's i find here..d/ the reason why i want to be one of the first cuebuilders in my country of the new era (2k+), is that im looking for a hobby for in my later days. (when ill be 50 or older...) i still have 20 years to go, so it gives me more then enough time to start doing the research work.. (by then i should have a very very nice income, and lets say $ wouldnt be a problem... im ready to spend some k's $ by then to start a business. ive got 20y to save for it.. so even if i safe lets say 50$ bucks /month, by then i should have MORE then enough... i could even start collecting woods.. and season them for 10 or more years...

so my question: could you tell me wich points in my post will be impossible? i know its VERY though for people who live in the states, but how hard is it for a european guy... is my dream possible? or should i find annother hobbie?

If I might suggest. Apply for a Visa and come to America for a while.
There are more cue builders here at the moment than you can rattle a stick at. If you speak fluent english perhaps you could get an apprenticeship.

Otherwise find some well respected wood and steel shops at home and work out of them for a while to get an understanding of how the machinery and stock works together. I'm a contractor and was a farm boy as a kid. I have used all sorts of equipment my entire life. I will tell you this, if you are coming into this quest of building a cue with no knowledge of equipment and the dangers it may present, you are looking to get seriously injured. Something as simple as a loose shirt can have dire consequences. I know guys that cut their own fingers off, shaved parts of their hands of in jointer planers and others that have lost body parts in combines. First and foremost you need experience with equipment so that you will understand and have the proper respect for the tools you will be using.

[WilleeCue]

How easy is it to make your own cue from scratch and what type of materials and machines do you need as I have seen some of the cues on here and I would really love to design and make my own.

Your best option would be to get with a cue maker for a week or so and build it in his shop and under his direction.
Considering the liability issue of injury and lawsuits most are not willing to do that, but there are a few that will.
It may seem expensive but you end up with a nice cue that YOU made plus a lot of 'hands on' cue making knowledge.

Call me if you need more information.

WilleeCue
Corpus Christi, Texas
361-563-1303