duke@neo.rr.com said:
is there a cue-maker on this forum that would be willing to help me learn to make cues? my main focus would be "sneaky pete's" as imo they are the best playing cues. I can't bring myself to ask Bob DZ personally as he IS in my city of Erie,PA. I learn fairly quick and would pay close attention to what you're telling me, as pool is kinda my life. I've been playing since I was like 16-17 and am 29 now (in 23 days), and can't see myself working the rest of my days in a factory or something similar. I want to be in the pool related buisness. it's something I've wanted to learn for a while now and is not a "phase" like some people. all I ask for is a chance to prove myself worthy of teaching...that's all. I've been told I play pretty well, but I don't think I'll ever "leave my mark" playing, so maybe cue-making is how I can do it. any responses please leave them here, or call me at: Jeff Duke (814)602-5526. I'll try to get back to you asap about this matter. thanks in advance guys, Jeff
Hi Jeff,
My "spies" told me about this post so I thought I'd respond.
I'm surprised you were reluctant to approach me about this. The worst that could happen is that I'd tell you "No, I won't help you". Sure, you would be in direct competition with me but so what? I'll survive. And if you were afraid of alienating me, how could I reasonably be upset with you for following your dream?
That said, joeyincali is right. There are much better ways to make a living. But if you are determined to explore this as a career, remember that the majority of cuemakers build cues part time...as a sideline to their "real" jobs. Most cuemakers have a background in machining. If you don't, the learning curve can be pretty steep. The initial investment required in machinery, tooling & supplies can be daunting. Even if you restrict yourself to building SPs, you need a lathe, shaft blanks, ferrules, tips, bumpers, joint pins, inserts plus all the specialized tooling needed to install everything accurately. And you must be accurate. If you try to cut corners, your reputation will quickly suffer. Not good for business.
The information needed to get started is out there. Hightower & Deickmann have books and/or tapes available that show you everything you need to get started. Your first task is to acquire some of these & see what you're getting into. Even this will require spending a decent chunk of change, unless you can find someone willing to part with their previously viewed books/tapes at a reduced cost (hint, hint: me).
Or, if you want hands-on training, that is available too but at an appreciably higher cost & probably some traveling. And you still need to buy your equipment & supplies.
I'd be willing to help you out if you show some initiative as far as learning what you can with the information available to you but I don't think you'll find too many cuemakers who are willing to show you all the ropes for nothing. When I got started I sent questions to many cuemakers who never even responded. A few yrs later, I sent out another question concerning a particular problem I had & none other than Thomas Wayne responded with an in-depth analysis of my problem & the solution I needed. When I asked why he decided to help me now when he ignored me before, he said that in my first email, I wanted the basics handed to me on a platter. In the 2nd email, it was obvious I had done my homework & paid some dues. That made the difference. That act of kindness on his part stuck with me & I fully appreciate his reasoning.
It's too bad you didn't mention this when you first ordered the SP I'm currently building for you. I could have walked you through the basics. Next time you stop by, we'll talk.
