Lone Star Briar Works
Born on the bayou in Lafayette, Louisiana, and shaped by the soulful streets of New Orleans, Mark Dominguez brings a rich Southern heritage and a deep sense of craftsmanship to his work. After spending over 20 years in New Orleans and later settling in Houston, Texas, Mark transitioned from a successful career in the bread distribution business into the more personal and artful pursuit of pipe making.
Mark's journey into pipe smoking began while watching The Lord of the Rings. The sight of churchwarden pipes sparked a practical idea that a longer pipe could spare his beard the singe of smoking cigarettes. Drawn to the ritual and nostalgia of pipe smoking, especially the memories of his father, Mark began exploring the world of pipes more seriously. What started as a personal hobby soon grew into a passion and he gravitates towards traditional English blends.
Initially self-taught in the restoration of estate pipes, Mark spent six years breathing new life into worn briars, refining his eye for detail and structure. Eventually, his curiosity led him to carve his own. Starting with a simple pipe kit, he learned through trial and error, which quickly evolved into a deeper mastery of the craft.
Now, under the name Lone Star Briar Works, Mark handcrafts each pipe from start to finish. Every bowl and mouthpiece is shaped meticulously by hand, using only fine Mediterranean briar, ebonite, and acrylic. Occasionally, he incorporates accent materials to add a distinctive touch to his work. His design sensibility gravitates toward classic shapes like Bulldogs and Rhodesians with bold, fat shanks, while also embracing a range of styles from traditional freehands to modern, artistic forms.
A significant milestone in Mark’s journey came when he met legendary pipe maker Michael Butera, who has since taken him under his wing. This mentorship has helped Mark refine his techniques and further elevate the quality of his work.
Beyond the workshop, Mark devotes time to working with rescue dogs, with a special focus on Great Pyrenees.
