How To Cellar Pipe Tobacco PART 1 - Mason Jars, Vacuum Sealing, & Parafilm

Want to store your pipe blends long term and keep an air tight seal for proper aging? Here are the options that I choose to use, including mason jars, vacuum sealing, and parafilm. There are many options, preferences, and opinions on storage. These are just the ones I personally choose to use. Regular plastic bags (Ziploc, or Sutliff / Mac Baren 1-pound bags for example) are insufficient for long term storage. Anything you put in a mason jar (including entire pouches/bags if your jar is big enough) will be fine, as long as you have space for all those jars! You can vacuum seal entire tins, but this is more expensive and takes up more storage space than neatly stacked tins with parafilm seals. So explore all options and decide what works best for you! :)
How To Cellar Pipe Tobacco PART 2:
• How To Cellar Pipe Tob...
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[@hobbitonpiper]

Subscribe and click the bell to be notified when “How To Cellar Pipe Tobacco PART 2” is released! I’ll share thoughts on pop-top tins, proper temperature, and include answers to questions from comments below! There are many options, preferences, and opinions on storage. These are just the ones I personally choose to use. Regular plastic bags (Ziploc, or Sutliff / Mac Baren 1-pound bags for example) are insufficient for long term storage. Anything you put in a mason jar (including entire pouches/bags if your jar is big enough) will be fine, as long as you have space for all those jars! You can vacuum seal entire tins, but this is more expensive and takes up more storage space than neatly stacked tins with parafilm seals. So explore all options and decide what works best for you! :)

[@benniebarrow348]

I’ve just gotten into pipe smoking and have been binge watching your videos. Just wanted to say that you are one of the coolest guys I have ever listened to. Your knowledgeable, calm and kind approach is such a pleasure . Just wanted to give kudos where kudos are due . Thanks !

[@hobbitonpiper]

This is great to hear, thank you so much for taking the time to send me this encouragement!!

[@expandingknowledge8269]

I cellar my whole leaf tobacco in mason jars. My wife is really into food canning our foods. She has a vacuum device that she uses that looks like a brake bleeding device, I use this on my mason jars for my tobacco, works fantastic. I usually place dried plums and a twig of vanilla into each jar, really flavors the tobacco to my liking. I use dark burleys and Virginia bright whole leaf tobaccos which I prefer. Smoking some of this right now watching this video on a blustery morning here in New Hampshire. Your the Best Kevin !!! 👌

[@hobbitonpiper]

That all sounds very interesting, I bet you get some nice results!

[@tmead07]

Hey, I use one of those too! It’s literally a brake line bleeder I got at harbor freight and the food saver attachment for mason jars. Just starting pipe smoking, but I’ve been using it for years to keep jars of snacks and stuff fresh after opening the original packaging.

[@kentheonlywellmaybedontoo9754]

damn this guy seems so humble, approachable, genuine. keep going with the vids please!

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@kentheonlywellmaybedontoo9754 will do! :)

[@tomsmith5901]

Hey, I am a relatively new subscriber, so out of date on your videos. What I love about your offerings is that you stay focused on the topic of tobacco and stuff related to tobacco. I mean, there are several guys who go off into politics; they seem to assume their listeners are interested in all of their views on everything. Anyway, thank you. I’d note with love that you tend to have a bit of OCD going on but its all fun. Just saying. I am a retired shrink. I am one of those ‘don’t want to cellar’ for most blends since there are sooooo many amazing ones I adore, it is incredibly unlikely all of them will be unavailable at the same time. And I am unconvinced that cellaring consistently improves flavor. I also don’t want to spend the time you do in cutting rounds with the name of the blend and glue-sticking on to the mason jars. What I have found is a different solution, so if you are not it is using Zegghead Mason Jar Labels. These are available on Amazon and elsewhere and are made in the USA. They fit almost all sizes of mason jars, and you use a ‘sharpie’ to put the name of the blend on the white tag, and can erase it later if you decide you don’t want that one. So, easy and re-usable. Thanks again!

[@hobbitonpiper]

OCD. Yes, I believe you have properly diagnosed me :)

[@thenjrogers]

I know this an older video! However, I appreciate the information. I have recently devised essentially the same system, so it’s nice to see it works well for someone else. We have the same reasons for wanting to vacuum seal too! I don’t really mind mason jars for ribbons cuts at all. I can just stuff a ribbon cut real tight and seal it away. Other cuts are more annoying to use in mason jars. For even moderate length storage it’s good to minimize headspace. Gawith Square tins have recently gotten even worse. You’re probably aware already of that. I posted something on Reddit not too long ago asking for advice on how to reinforce seals. Gawith and Hogarth has an official Reddit account. They actually commented on my post. At first I thought it was very cool that they posted on Reddit and were trying to engage with their customers. However, they made it very clear that maintaining a strong seal on their tins is not a priority for them. They want to only focus on making good tobacco and making sure they can just get it to the consumer properly. I definitely get that, and clearly that’s the most important thing. However, it’s very frustrating at the same time. I’d like to buy three tins or so when a hard to find blend comes along so I can enjoy it as a treat throughout the year and not worry that I’m quickly going to run out and be bummed. I’m not a hoarder. However, with poor seals, and living in the Midwest with very dry winters, that means I can’t even trust poorly sealed tins to last a year.

[@hobbitonpiper]

No matter the age of my videos, Nick, I’ve recorded these with longevity in mind so that they will hopefully still be a good resource for folks many years from now! Yes, the measures described in this 2-part series should serve you well in mitigating the risks improper aging. When in doubt, jar it up. Be sure to see Part 2! :)

[@rbenning242]

Not sure why I never thought to vacuum seal… This is helpful. Thank you for all the videos!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Try it out and see what you think. You’re very welcome! :)

[@tamper-proof3703]

Great job walking us through these deep cellaring tips. Always first class info and presentation!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thanks so much! PART 2 will be released next week! Hope to see you there :)

[@tylerspri]

Mason jars full of tobacco and nicely labeled make awesome decorations....bonus points. 😀

[@hobbitonpiper]

They sure do!! :)

[@stevewilams867]

Awesome advice!!! Really good advice anyone who is looking into getting into buying bulk tobacco or anyone wanting to just keep it good and get the most out of it.

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re welcome Steve, you may enjoy Part 2 as well sometime!

[@jacksonrpaul]

Thank you for these awesome educational videos!

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re very welcome, Jackson, be sure to see Part 2! :)

[@TearsOfNoobs]

Great storage tips/options. Just ordered some jars for some of my frequently visited tobacco. Now to print off the HD labels for the lids.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Awesome! Yeah, mason jars are a must in my book. I have a step-by step video on how to make the cellar labels if you missed it!

[@paranormal_investigators6003]

by far the vacuum seal bags are my favorite. been using them for years without a problem but for tins you can by heat shrink plastic cellophane wrap as well and it will hold the tins lid tight to the bottom can

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yes, be sure to see Part 2 for my full thoughts!

[@Piper-Aaron]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge sir! I just got into pipe smoking and I’m learning so much from you!

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re very welcome! Be sure to watch Part 2! :)

[@Piper-Aaron]

I just finished part 2! If I transfer tins into a mason jar is it ok to put multiple tins of tobacco of the same blend into one jar?

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@Piper-Aaron absolutely. The only time this might not be advised is if you had a fresh tin vs an aged tin. It wouldn’t hurt anything to combine them, but aged blends often taste quite different than when they are fresh, so it wouldn’t be a consistent jar if you combined them, if that makes sense.

[@Piper-Aaron]

@@hobbitonpiper that makes perfect sense! Thank you very much for your help I truly appreciate it.

[@blzbub8822]

Man what a neat contraption! And such helpful ways on cellaring your tobaccos! Love this. I’ve actually been trying to figure out the best way to dry out some of my tobaccos as they’re very moist from the shop I got them from. Tips very much welcome.

[@hobbitonpiper]

All you have to do to let your tobacco dry a bit is just set out what you plan to pack for 20 mins or so. But don’t let it get crispy dry. That will never be your best flavor experience. Full thoughts here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4fbfaKBnbGpi8Usi=2KPOgbyShfqQN597

[@patrickpetrowsky8136]

A Christmas Vacation fan! 🎄

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yes!! :)

[@vivacristorey1853]

I’m here from your comment/advice on your other video. On to video #2 now. This is great thanks!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Awesome, I hope it helps!

[@NickS34252]

Very Awesome and original suggestion to use para-film - I never knew such a thing existed, and now I can't live without it :) Poking around some of the lab channels that use parafilm, many suggest a 'tip' of cutting twice the width you need and folding it over. Makes it much easier to stretch without breaking.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Ah, something to try! It would take double the amount of parafilm to do that, but I can see how that could help

[@tomslivinski5665]

Thanks for the information! I have a food saver and never considered it for storing my pouches.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Works great! Be sure to see Part 2! :)

[@Rurik8118]

Found it Kevin! Thanks 🙏🏼

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@Rurik8118 cool! :)

[@russhicksart]

great video about storing tobacco. I need some Parafilm M. Never used it before and it looks to be a great solution for the pesky metal tins. Maybe Santa will bring me some.

[@hobbitonpiper]

I enjoy using it, and have never had it come loose after being applied properly as shown. Very tight seal, but easily removed. And the tins still stack up nice and neat this way as if nothing extra had been done! Thank you Russ!

[@piperced-said1964]

Good ideas! You could also use 1Gallon Jars for storage of whole package tobacco’s! That would also be mice proof!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yes you can! I mention that in my top comment above because after filming this I wish I’d said that myself. As long as a person has room to store those large jars… :)

[@SmokingCardboard]

Well done video. Obviously put a lot of thought and time. Thanks for sharing. I’m using jars and tins. The tins I seal with foil tape😊👍🏻

[@hobbitonpiper]

Jars always win scientifically, no doubt. Any extra layer around our tins can’t hurt! :)

[@polyesterdreamboat]

I collect new tobacco blends like I collect books. I buy it, intending to smoke it, and add it to the growing pile. I'll get to it *someday*

[@hobbitonpiper]

Haha yes, that’s exactly how it all starts! :)

[@NorthwoodsAmerican]

A got the Parafilm idea from one of Cane rods earlier videos and have all my tins sealed with it. I even do a wrap on all my long term jars. It’s great stuff!

[@hobbitonpiper]

It’s a good tool to have! You know how mason jar lids can become loose over time and need to be retightened? I wonder if your process of wrapping jar lids with parafilm prevents this? Interesting…

[@NorthwoodsAmerican]

That would be interesting to know. I’ve never noticed that they loosen because I probably over tighten them! Lol

[@ryanhensley5491]

Great video thanks for sharing, I never heard of parafilm before

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re welcome, Ryan, yeah Parafilm is pretty cool stuff. Hope you enjoy PART 2 when you have time to watch :)

[@ChipAK49]

Thanks Kevin, I have never seen that tape before, I might have to get some! All the best.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thanks Chip, it’s a pretty cool option to play with :)

[@flyfishingpiper4976]

Thank you for the video, I have been using mason jars and vacuum sealers but the film is a great idea for the tins! Thanks again and hope all is well!

[@hobbitonpiper]

All is well here, thank you! Yeah the Parafilm is a nice tool to add to your piping toolbox :)

[@goblinpiper6665]

I actually have Parafilm on hand! Cool thanks friend 😊

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re so welcome! Very cool! :)

[@robertashcroft1439]

Kevin, Great video on cellaring. I use mason jars and a food saver. One thing extra I do is to add an oxygen absorber to the pack or jar. It pulls the lid or packaging tighter and seals better also it will show if I did not get a good seal.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Very cool Robert, I may have to look into that! :)

[@AlfonsoTheTraitor]

Thanks for the tips I really like the film a lot I just might have to look into this.

[@hobbitonpiper]

You should! It’s a good tool to have in your piping pocket :)

[@tacodirt9533]

So far digging the channel. Have a vacuum sealer and obviously do not use it enough, as the idea never crossed my mind. I also really like the idea of the Parafilm M. Question on the Parafilm M. Does anyone have a real life example of a time the tin failed and the Parafilm M saved the day? While looking at Parafilm M it is described as being a moisture barrier but gas permeable. "Parafilm will prevent moisture and volume loss but it is also permeable to oxygen, carbon dioxide and water vapour. Therefore it allows for off-gassing without compromising the sample integrity." Possibly, way over thinking this...

[@hobbitonpiper]

See PART 2 for answers to these questions! :)

[@RaduCiprian]

Very nice, informative video! May I suggest you make a comparison between a blend that you cellared for some time and the same blend fresh?

[@hobbitonpiper]

Some blends change dramatically with age, I’ll add that video idea to my list! :)

[@Nighttrainpiper]

Looks like the parafilm could be pretty easily removable. Reason I point that out is that you could theoretically use that on opened tins that you only want to smoke once in a while, rather than jarring it. I personally like my active rotation tobacco in their original tins. Though I do have some of it jarred as well.

[@hobbitonpiper]

It’s very easily removable, Scott. However, keep in mind that Parafilm strips are one-time-use. Once an applied strip is removed, they become loose, floppy, and no longer stretch properly. As long as you were willing to cut a new strip each time I think you could do this, but that will require a lot of Parafilm over time.

[@AaronHawley]

I forgot about parafilm. I used to work in a biology lab. It's a neat product.

[@hobbitonpiper]

It really is! Quite useful

[@fivevs1]

I got a few jars of tobacco in Mason jars that, by the date I wrote on the label, will hit ten years come January 2023. Funny enough that happened to be the last time I saw FVF available in bulk format.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Very cool!!!

[@raymond71595]

I'm gonna have to try that out on my tins

[@hobbitonpiper]

Let me know how it goes , Ray! :)

[@raymond71595]

@@hobbitonpiper I sure will!

[@skipton9511]

Informative instructive video, Kevin. Another reason to use the 'alternate' vacuum sealed bag or parafilm is the amount of storage space that you have. Jars are going to take up more space than stacked sealed tins or pouches. Thanks for the tips! Be well, stay safe, and keep it awesome - peace

[@hobbitonpiper]

A major “pro” of using bags over jars is saving space, but it does come with its cons. I’m going to share my thoughts about the pros and cons in great detail during PART 2 next week. Lots of options for a piper to consider! :)

[@skipton9511]

@@hobbitonpiper Looking forward to Part 2 👍

[@johnpoundford1063]

So ive decided to quit cigarettes and take up a pipe instead and I've just bought a pot jar to put mi bacca in.but your video was very good and informative thank you

[@hobbitonpiper]

Glad I could help

[@E.Suggs316]

Awesome video on cellaring. These are all the methods I use. Though I did have a miner problem with the parafilm. I found that the way I store my tins together in stacks in mediums sized tubs (Ziploc Brand) that over time the tins slightly touch and rub together causing the parafilm to split. If your tins stacked never touch though it would be a great option. For me though I believe I'm going to move to the Hvac tin foil tape to put an extra seal on my tins. Take care and Merry Christmas to you and your family

[@hobbitonpiper]

Very interesting Ethan! Yeah if there’s friction over time I can see that breaking down the film. Regardless of the methods used, it’s always wise to check your stock on occasion for any potential issues (mold inside jars, broken bags, or broken seals)

[@clays.8122]

Hey Kevin, hope everyone there made it through the storms safely

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yes all good here, thanks for checking on us! :)

[@pipenotch]

hi kevin another very helpful video 🙂👍 i have to get the parafilm for all my samuel gawith tins i have i my cellar. cheers marco

[@hobbitonpiper]

I definitely use it for all of mine. Let me know what you think of it :)

[@AlfonsoTheTraitor]

That film looks amazing 😉 thanks!

[@hobbitonpiper]

It’s fun! Definitely worth trying :)

[@jbafternoonpiper404]

I use the food sealer bags for everything I want to seal and don't want to smoke for a while. I think I'm going to try that tape also. I see it's on amazon.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Great choice JB! :)

[@capjiekia]

parafilm is good idea. i use it also for single malt whiskey.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Nice!

[@benwalton6451]

@hobbitonpiper love your videos. Another option to the Parafilm is grafting tape. It is used for grafting trees. It works really well and it is quite a bit cheaper than Parafilm. Keep up the great work!

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@benwalton6451 cool!

[@paulrouleau1972]

Interesting and informative. Thanks!

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re so welcome Paul!

[@corksauve4949]

I vacuum seal a lot of food. I put them in the freezer afterwards. So I can't say how long a vacuum sealed bag will keep it's seal. One thing to remember is that most plastics are gas permeable. Meaning gas can escape and enter a plastic bag. Not sure how long it would take but I would guess it will happen. Just something to keep an eye out for.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yes, vacuum sealing around original pouch/bag packaging just gives you that extra layer of insurance basically. I don’t personally vacuum seal loose tobacco for long term storage. Be sure to see PART 2 for more on this! :)

[@ostekuste3646]

Commenting on an old video, but had something to add. I store dry goods in mason jars such as spices, beans, and rice. I have a harbor freight vacuum pump such as used for hvac work hooked up to a vacuum chamber built from pvc pipe fittings (found the idea on the KZbin or Etsy). A half gallon mason jar will fit inside, then the vacuum pump draws the air out of the chamber and jar, effectIvely leaving the tobacco in a vacuum free of oxygen and sealing the jar. For some added insurance I throw in a small oxygen absorber packet. Short of the jar breaking it will store indefinitely.

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@ostekuste3646 keep in mind that some air at the top of your jar is good and advisable for proper fermentation. You want your jars air tight, but not void of all air completely. Many get that confused. A small amount of air at the top is quite ideal and most all top manufacturers expect this to be the case.

[@ostekuste3646]

@ that’s makes sense, although you could theoretically store with minimal air for long term preservation as is if that were your goal. I guess a perfect seal would not be ideal for most intentions.

[@viceandvirtue7292]

Just a hint on the vacuum sealing. Vacuum sealing is used to preserve perishable items. Your tobacco will age much slower if you remove all the oxygen. If you are sealing unopened tin or pouches it should be ok. If it is opened you need to ensure some air is left. There is a video on KZbin proving this over I believe 2 years of aging. Please link if you know the video.

[@hobbitonpiper]

I’ll share my thoughts on vacuum sealing loose tobacco in PART 2. I only personally vacu seal unopened pouches and bags as shown in here in PART 1. All of my loose tobacco is put into mason jars.

[@TRPufnStuf]

Great information. Thanks for sharing.

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re very welcome Erobin! Have you tried that Carter Hall yet? :)

[@TRPufnStuf]

@@hobbitonpiper not yet. Maybe this weekend.

[@madmantitus]

Another fantastic video Kevin! I really enjoyed this one. That stretchy plastics stuff looks like a great way to store tobacco. I've never seen nor heard of that till now. Just in case I get caught up and busy again. Have a fantastically merry Christmas my friend and a stupendously happy new year!

[@hobbitonpiper]

It’s fun to play with, Timothy! :) Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

[@frankgallik2653]

Hey Kevin, great content, ideas. I watched this a little late tonight. Was a bit busy. I wonder if plumbers threading tape would work as well as the Paraflim M. I did find where they have that in a tape style roll. Excellent ideas, thank you for sharing. Have a great evening.

[@hobbitonpiper]

The clear application is really nice, it’s as if you’ve done nothing at all, and yet it’s 2.8x more resistant to oxygen transmission than even FoodSaver bags. It’s a great tool to have on hand :)

[@stevel4439]

Love your videos. Parafilm is resistant to moisture losses but it is air permeable so may not be best for long term storage if want seal airtight.

[@russhicksart]

I believe Kevin or I address this elsewhere in the comments, but our research comparing Parafilm with other plastic storage materials showed that the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) of Parafilm is approximately 2.6-2.8 times better than that of typical polystyrene bags. Based on the data sheets I found, Parafilm has an OTR of around 150 cc/m²/day of oxygen permeability, compared to 400-425 cc/m²/day for standard plastic bags (at a ΔP of 1 atm). If you’re looking for an airtight seal for a ferrous-metal, coin-style tin, a metallic Mylar bag would be a better option. However, you would lose the ability to see the tin and it probably wouldn't stack well. The OTR for metallic Mylar is roughly 1,000 times better than that of Parafilm, making it significantly more effective for long-term sealing and rust prevention. As for mason jars, I’ve tested them for decades and found that some seals begin to break down after about 10 years, requiring replacement of the lid because they dry out and crack. That said, I do have one jar that has maintained near vacuum pressure for over 25 years. Unfortunately I don't have any data older than this.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thank you Russ!

[@stevel4439]

@@russhicksart Thank you for the clarification. Interesting topic. I've used parafilm for years for my scotch/bourbon collection have not yet tried for tins but will try it out now.

[@williams3846]

The parafilm is an excellent idea. I will have to try that. Also, I don’t see any Lane 1-Q being sold in tins anymore. I wonder if they discontinued that.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Not sure…I think you can still get em but I haven’t looked in a while

[@papajoepiper1550]

Great Information Kevin!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thanks Joe, be sure to watch Part 2! I answer viewer questions and give more information along these lines

[@papajoepiper1550]

@@hobbitonpiper I just watched it. It was great too. I have a question. Do the 14 Oz. Tubs need to be sealed with Parafilm M?

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@papajoepiper1550 I’m not sure a proper seal could be obtained via parafilm on tubs with plastic lids…same with tins that have plastic lids like C&D

[@papajoepiper1550]

@@hobbitonpiper Thank you Sir.

[@howardlowry6412]

OUTSTANDING! Thanks, very much!

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re very welcome! :)

[@Dustyphoto915]

So genuine question. I have heard people say that the second vacuum can break the vacuum applied to the tin at the factory. Have you ever experienced this?? Thanks for the feedback.

[@hobbitonpiper]

I haven’t, but if it did it wouldn’t matter. It’s still vacu sealed by the second vacuum.

[@Dustyphoto915]

@@hobbitonpiper True indeed. I vacuumed a few tins awhile back and I’m going to tear into em soon. I like the food grade plastic for that extra layer of water protection.

[@JoseMora-wc5zz]

Love you bro. Thanks for giving me info

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re very welcome! Be sure to watch Part 2! :)

[@TheEverydayPiper]

Great advice!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thanks Marcell! PART 2 will be released later this week! :)

[@torgomax]

Just what I needed to know 👍

[@hobbitonpiper]

Cool!

[@executiveboardluissantigo4878]

I use electric tape for my tins however will try this method with this product

[@hobbitonpiper]

I think you’ll like it! Thinner, a better seal, and clear. :)

[@sunset3052]

Awesome advice

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thank you! Be sure to watch Part 2 when you have time! :)

[@sunset3052]

@@hobbitonpiper I just did. Really enjoy all your videos, thanks so much Kevin!

[@jetteroheller6395]

Love the birds! Great Video.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thank you, be sure to see Part 2!

[@leatherbackcigar1234]

Just ordered some Parafilm M!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Very cool, let me know how you like it! :)

[@adamc647]

Very informative thank you

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re welcome Adam! :)

[@jeffhamilton5985]

Should i wrap or vac.seal unopened tins,pouches.or should they be fine if factory seal has not been broken. Thanks for your time,enjoy watching your videos

[@hobbitonpiper]

All of that guidance is within this video in great detail

[@Erik-pv2sr]

Why not put the tins in the food saver bags and vac seal them?

[@hobbitonpiper]

See Part 2! :)

[@rb343]

Great video, what width parafilm M did you buy? Very informative!

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thanks R B! 4 inches

[@rodrigomunoz4261]

Hola, soy un recién suscrito, tus videos son geniales y me pareces super simpático. Soy de los que les gusta guardar en envase original. ¿Cómo cuidas la humedad del tabaco en las latas selladas con Parafilm? Abrazos

[@hobbitonpiper]

The original humidity of the tobacco must be maintained, and that is accomplished by simply maintaining the original seal (keeping it air tight). Parafilm helps to assure the original seal is maintained, or you can open your tins and move the tobacco into an air tight mason jar. No other steps are needed in regards to humidity except that you need to store your air tight tins/jars in a cool, dark place with a relatively constant temperature (not in a place where temperatures could get very cold or very hot)

[@DavidHernandez-yc9yq]

Have you ever tried the food saver method on tins.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Hi David, you can certainly do that! Your tins won’t stack as neatly as if you’d used the Parafilm but FoodSaver bags should be sufficient. I’m being told now by one of my engineer friends that Parafilm is 2.8x better at preventing oxygen transmission than most FoodSaver bags, so Parafilm is pretty cool for tins, and it does save space. Visually it’s as if you did nothing at all. I’ll talk to you about the Mylar bag option in PART 2 as well :)

[@BradleyDavis-vm9cc]

New subscriber to your channel. Enjoy all the good information you share with us. Also new to piping. What size wide-mouth mason jars do you recommend? Where you get the flatter looking Ball jars? Thank you once again.

[@hobbitonpiper]

8oz are great for small amounts. Unfortunately the squat shaped jars have been discontinued and are difficult to find at a fair price

[@BradleyDavis-vm9cc]

Thank you sir!

[@alikos88]

Very infomercial video! Just wondering - when you 'seal' the Mason jar... are you just tightening the lid secure or do take additional steps i.e. Vacuum seal with FoodSaver Jar seal?

[@hobbitonpiper]

Ball Mason jars just need tightening the lid , all good

[@alikos88]

@@hobbitonpiper Thanks! btw I mean to say informative video...darn auto correct :)

[@gabriel.lazar1985]

Nice woodpecker! Looks like a female Nuttall's Woodpecker, although I've painted a bullseye (Stokkebye?) on myself for a better ornithologist to rebuke me. Such is life... Oh, and thanks for the video! Very helpful.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Tell me the time mark when it showed up in the video (minutes and seconds) and I’ll let you know, Gabriel! :) very welcome, glad you enjoyed! PART 2 this week!

[@gabriel.lazar1985]

@@hobbitonpiper Right at the beginning! 0:04 to 0:16.

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@gabriel.lazar1985 here we call those Downy Woodpeckers …sometimes ones will show up that look the same but are a bit larger with longer beaks we call Hairy Woodpeckers :)

[@dapiddiboy]

Thank you so much for the video! What are your thoughts on Boveda packs for moisture? I’ve been putting those into my jars. Don’t know if it really makes a difference over time.

[@hobbitonpiper]

There’s no need to add moisture to pipe tobacco if you haven’t lost it in the first place, which is preventable by storing it with a proper air tight seal, such as with a ball mason jar. No boveda packs for pipe tobacco. Be sure to watch Part 2! :)

[@dapiddiboy]

@@hobbitonpiper Thank you! I’m a German and I tend to over complicate things lol. About to watch Part 2.

[@imjusttoodissgusted5620]

cool number one comment this time. always enjoy your up loads (smoking my 320 trevi and some presbyterian + some 100 proof Evan Williams ) still waiting for a review of Revendale. I bet you smoke it in a cobbet pipe😀

[@hobbitonpiper]

So many blends so little time! Oh yes, that one is enjoyed in the Cobbit Shire pipe mostly! :)

[@imjusttoodissgusted5620]

@@hobbitonpiper I am running out of room in my secretary for mason jars and my tins. I need more space! today is my 40th anniversary and my wife got me an alligator green 311 KS, it's a beauty, now what to smoke in it first is the question, whether tis nobler to smoke an English or suffer the tongue bite of aromatics .......

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@imjusttoodissgusted5620 if I could start everyone out on Boswell’s Countryside I would :)

[@acoupleofpipedreams1609]

Hey, great video, please Could you tell me what size / capacity is the mason jar in your vid? And I presume it is the wide mouth style??? Kev

[@hobbitonpiper]

16oz Ball Wide Mouth mason jars are the large ones I use!

[@acoupleofpipedreams1609]

@@hobbitonpiper thank you 🙏🏻

[@Rick-fz7tt]

What’s the break down ratio of pipe tobacco to the size of a mason jar? Thanks

[@hobbitonpiper]

Hi Rick, that totally depends on the cut of the tobacco and how hard you personally choose to press it down in the jar. A little air space in the top is ideal for aging. You’ll have to experiment a bit, but in those low profile 8oz jars I use a lot it can usually fit 2-4oz of tobacco depending

[@Rick-fz7tt]

@@hobbitonpiper 🙏 Thanks

[@rustbeltpipes]

Great video! I've not heard of Parafilm. I know some folks use regular tape to seal tins, too. I'm curious if it's worthwhile to get dark glass jars or paint them to reduce sunlight getting to the leaf. Any info on that?

[@hobbitonpiper]

I’m now learning that some do use amber or purple mason jars to protect against 99% of UV rays. If you’re already storing your jars in a dark place, however, it would be unnecessary…and being able to see your tobacco in your sealed jars has benefits to me which I’ll share in PART 2.

[@The23Unknown]

Thanks for the helpful video! I had a question though. I recently picked up some Samuel Gawith tins and learned that they have been having issues with the vacuum seal being almost non existent from the factory. Do you think Parafilm would be a good way to remedy this if the seal is already broken?

[@russhicksart]

(I'm answering this at Kevin's request.) I've noticed the same thing with some of the recent Gawith tins I purchased. These are supposedly vacuum sealed but when I opened them they were already compromised so the evidence seems to be mounting. A Prafilm application certainly will not hurt but it will leak, albeit slowly, over time. If you think the seal is compromised and you wish to age the tobacco safely I recommend moving the contents to a mason jar. If you wish to preserve the anaerobic-only fermentation process of the original Gawith presentation you might consider vacuum seal lids for the mason jars or Mylar bags though personally I would opt for the the aerobic and anaerobic option of the classic mason jar.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Thank you Russ! I agree

[@gratefulpipeandcigar3239]

I have questions. I’m probably just gonna go with the ball jar option. But I’ve seen in plenty of storage videos, when you put tobacco in a ball jar, it’s recommended to fill it mostly but not to pack the tobacco down into it so that it’s tight. If I were to store unopened tins, the tobacco is packed pretty tight in a tin and I’m wondering if that is optimum for aging?

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yes, you are normally fine to leave the tins alone for aging (there are exceptions discussed in this series) and add a parafilm seal when possible. This is optimal as manufacturers have sealed these tins with aging in mind. Leaving a little room in your ball jars is advised to allow a little air for a proper aging environment.

[@SebastianC25]

How tight should I screw on the lids on the mason jars. Cause three of the ones I bought the screw on top just got really really tight while screwing them on and then it just got loose again. Meaning the screw on system broke.

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@SebastianC25 well that’s not ideal, a “Ball” mason jar should never do that. Some off brands do. In those cases you’ll want to get it as tight as possible before it begins to go off track and loosen

[@SebastianC25]

@@hobbitonpiper Yeah I have some off brand ones since the Ball jars dont come to my country sadly

[@thunderstickhomestead]

I have some Brigadier Black in large 8oz tubs is that ok or should I do something elts? I didnt even open it to see how its sealed up I just put them in the cellar

[@hobbitonpiper]

Those are pop tops…I’m not sure if they have food-grade liners or not. If you’re going to smoke something yourself and have concerns (and you don’t care about resale value), the wise decision is to move it into a mason jar after 5 years.

[@ZoobTech]

Are there any blends that you wouldnt recommend storing or ageing? for instance, aromatics or english blends that are better fresh than they would be aged? is that thing? thank you!

[@hobbitonpiper]

It’s definitely a thing but depends on the blend. Some aromatics age fine while others can become rancid over time and are much better fresh. English blends are hit or miss. Virginia based blends, especially straight virginia blends often improve dramatically with age. Be sure to watch Part 2! :)

[@andrewvela2266]

Just curious what size mason jar is that in this video? If anyone knows please.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Hi Andrew, in this video that is a 16oz Wide Mouth Ball Mason Jar. Be sure to watch Part 2! :)

[@The-man-with-the-many-pipes]

Hello! Very cool thx ✌

[@hobbitonpiper]

Hello! And thank you, brother :)

[@Dencoan]

How have you decided how much tobacco to cellar? I was thinking 20-25lbs not counting the tins I have in jars I’m working through but thinking about it I’m 32 and hopefully have quite a few more years to smoke

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@Dencoan you just have to do the math. How much you go through in a month, in a year, and how much you want on hand for years to come.

[@Dencoan]

@ this equation seems to haunt most of my hobbies…. N+1 = Goal

[@mtintegrity]

so on ball jar option - do you vacuum seal your ball jarred tobacco or just close them tight? ever use oxygen absorbers?

[@hobbitonpiper]

No, the ball jars are already as air tight as you can get on their own. Tobacco aging actually can benefit from a little air being sealed in there so no need to absorb oxygen, just need to achieve an air tight seal.

[@vBunz]

If storing tobacco in a mason jar, do i need to put a humidification device inside? Or just simply throw the tobacco inside, seal it tight, and leave it?

[@hobbitonpiper]

No humidification needed for pipe tobacco. The key is to preserve its original moisture content / tobacco oils within an air tight container such as a mason jar.

[@vBunz]

Thank you@@hobbitonpiper !! You've just earned a new follower!

[@YouHeckinBetcha]

Hi Kevin, I have some 100g tins of solani and those are not vacuumed sealed. They have a bag inside of the tin. Would you recommend leaving them or jar them for long term? I have 4 of them and won’t be getting into them very consistently due to so many opened tobaccos already! Thanks in advance:)

[@hobbitonpiper]

You should remove them from the tins/bags and jar them up. Except for resale value there’s just no reason to risk it. If you’re going to smoke it, I’d move those to mason jars.

[@YouHeckinBetcha]

@@hobbitonpiper ok will do!

[@Dencoan]

Question for you will aromatics store fine if kept in mason jars or sealed factory tins or will they lose their flavor after a couple of years?

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@Dencoan totally depends on the blend. Some aromatics age just fine, while others turn rancid and are significantly better when smoked fresh. Some topping recipes simply don’t age well.

[@Dencoan]

@@hobbitonpiper hoping cult blood moon does well in a sealed factory tin and ps24 will live well in mason jars guess I’ll have to experiment. I also quite enjoy autumn evening

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@Dencoan CBRM and PS24 both seem to age ok

[@Dencoan]

@@hobbitonpiper probably a dumb question but is aging and storing the same? If it’s unopened is it still aging?

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@Dencoan tobacco will age in a sealed container. Tobacco that is not stored with an air tight seal will dry out and lose its oils and moisture, and will therefore not age properly. Be sure to watch Part 2.

[@Alamopiper]

@jfrancisut 0 seconds ago I have a Food Saver that came with accessories to seal canning jars. Should I use it on the canning jars I use to store tobacco?

[@hobbitonpiper]

No, not if you pack your jars fairly full. A little air at the top of the jar is good for a proper fermentation/aging environment. It’s critical that your jar is air tight though, so make sure the lid is fully tightened

[@stevel3186]

Hi, quick question.. using the parafil M on teh square tins like S&G.. what do you do being that they have that cellophane ring around the seal with the date code now?.... do you parafilm over it?

[@hobbitonpiper]

You’re just trying to provide an extra layer of air tight protection, so as long as the Parafilm can adhere to the tin you should be fine to go over that seal.

[@stevel3186]

@@hobbitonpiper awesome thanks!

[@workaccount3872]

Coming from the mycology world Parafilm is not air tight. It will let gasses escape, but it is good for keeping moisture in/out. That said, I've had cultures in petri dishes dry out while sealed with parafilm so it is not a guarantee that it will work long term.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Yeah, keeping that moisture in is the key, so it’s just another risk mitigator. It’s certainly not a forever guarantee tho. As with all types of storage they periodically need to be checked.

[@shaunwild8797]

Why do people cellar their pipe tobacco, is it hoarding just in case their favourite blend get stopped being produced?

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@shaunwild8797 some blends improve dramatically with age when cellared (stored) properly as this video series teaches you how to do. And yes, other reasons to store tobacco long-term is that it will never be cheaper than it is today, plus we have seen countless blends be discontinued over the years that were people‘s favorites, so stockpiling favorites is wise.

[@shaunwild8797]

@@hobbitonpiper Thank you Sir and hello from England. I'm a new pipe smoker and will take your advice.

[@bratva23]

I make a vacuum for everything.

[@hobbitonpiper]

Be sure to see Part 2 for more thoughts on this!

[@angelomendola7464]

I'm new to this hobby. I thought you're not supposed to vacuum seal for long term storage? Is it because you're storing in the original package which has some oxygen inside?

[@hobbitonpiper]

The key is to keep an air tight seal on the original packaging so that the tobacco oils and moisture inside that packaging are not lost over time. I don’t vacuum seal loose tobacco for long term storage personally. More on that in Part 2, so be sure to watch it as well for more answers! :)

[@angelomendola7464]

@@hobbitonpiper Thanks for that. So if I really wanted to store something say for a few years, what would be the best method?

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@angelomendola7464 it’s it’s already open, a mason jar. Otherwise just leave it in its original packaging, it should be fine to sit for that amount of time, in a cool consistent temperature as described in these videos.

[@angelomendola7464]

@@hobbitonpiper thanks. Appreciate the videos. I also see some folks putting small Boveda packs to keep the RH constant inside the jar.

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@angelomendola7464 absolutely unnecessary for pipe tobacco in my opinion. Just don’t loose the original moisture in the first place and all is well, that’s the key.

[@vinnyboomba9948]

I like how tobacco is a commodity

[@hobbitonpiper]

@@vinnyboomba9948 it definitely is :)

[@jackmclane1826]

Probably okay and good enough for a couple of years. BUT all plastic let oxygen from the air pass slowly. So... if you REALLY want to isolate it for good, get metallized plastic foils.

[@hobbitonpiper]

As stated in the video, nothing beats the glass/metal combo of mason jars. Be sure to see Part 2!

[@trinkladd]

Wanna keep tobacco a long time. By stainless steal vaults. A bowl with sealable lid. And place a 6rh two each boveda pack. U can vacuum seal as well with a boveda pack

[@russhicksart]

I am not quite understanding what you are recommending here. Seems like multiple unnecessary, sub-optimal steps. If your pipe tobacco is properly humidified to begin with using a mason jar for storage would be a much lighter storage solution, less prone to rust/tarnish and significantly less expensive. The only time I have ever needed to use a Boveda pack on pipe tobacco is when I have let it dry out too much and I agree, it works great.