Vitale Piero Freehands

Of all the pipes we saw at the Stuttgart Pipe Fair 2025, Piero Vitale's pipes are probably the ones we remember best because of their unique style. One thing seems clear, a Vitale Freehand is so characteristic that it quickly stands out.

Piero Vitale seems to have learnt quickly, as he has only been making pipes since 2014. He has a certain ‘hereditary background’ when it comes to working with wood, as his grandfather was a carpenter and sculptor by trade. Piero had also previously worked a lot with fine art, music and wood carving.

He also found inspiration in the work of Victor Yashtylov, Kent Rasmussen, Tom Eltang, Eder Mathias, Gamboni and many other contemporary pipe makers.

His unique style is difficult to describe in words, but completely clear once you have seen his work. Thin shanks, just ‘Macaroni thick’, wide bores, harmonious, organic shapes and a preference for certain shapes that are repeatedly quoted and varied characterise his work.

His focus is on sharpening his style and perfecting his craftsmanship. Not least through exchange and collaboration with other pipe makers.

Piero Vitale makes around 200 pipes a year and uses the best Italian briar, which he lets rest for at least two years before processing it further.

For us, THE pipe maker discovery of the year 2025!