Simply remove the twisty screw, pack the pipe to the desired fullness (no more than 3/4 full), twist in the screw, and light. Once the V12 is lit, it stays lit, simply turn the mouthpiece from time-to-time to engage the twisty screw and eject the ash. When done, simply put the cap on to extinguish the flame, keeping the remaining un-smoked product ready for your next session.