YouTube has a few good videos that you should watch.
For some reason won't let me copy the link to the specific video so just type this into the search window on YouTube....guess because right now I'm on my iPad.
Pipe Smoking: How to press tobacco
If I press a flake that I don't add toppings/flavors I make sure the leaves are moist. If not naturally I made a humidifier box to hydrate the tobacco ? leaves ?.
One of the cakes I press is a dessert blend made from burley and Carolina red leaf. The topping I use is a natural Maple oil. I've also used a strong liquid concentrate of Espresso for a tasty coffee flake. I've actually made both a few times in clean tobacco tins I saved, press right in the tin with food grade parchment paper on top and bottom. Press without lid using a piece of wood or metal plate cut to size of the inner diameter of the tin your using. For this method I use C-clamps, no special press required. Works well, like making your own plug to cut or slice how you like.
Be careful of the moisture levels if you intend on aging, if not stored properly your tobacco can develop a fungus fairly quick. First few batches will be a learning experience.
If you have a few types of tobacco leaves of your choice, place one leaf on top of the other 2 to 3 times and roll up as tight as possible. Then what I do is wrap tied up tight in unbleached cheesecloth. Once cured slice as thin as you like. Just as you would slice sausage.
You've just made your own Navy roll or with a dark leaf in the center you just created your own Bullseye.
Good luck and have fun :cheers:
KEEP ON PUFFING!!!
