Threading a pipe is an essential skill for anyone involved in plumbing and various DIY projects around the house. By cutting threads into pipes, you can connect them securely and efficiently. Here are 12 easy steps to help you thread pipe like a pro.

1. Gather the necessary materials: You will need a pipe vise, pipe cutter, threading die, die stock, pipe tap, and cutting oil. You’ll also want safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself while working.

2. Clean and inspect the pipe: Make sure the pipe is free of debris, dirt, and burs that can affect the threading process. Use a wire brush if needed.

3. Secure the pipe: Place the pipe into a vise so that it remains steady while you cut and thread it. Tighten the clamp securely without damaging the pipe’s surface.

4. Cut the pipe to size: Use a pipe cutter to trim the end of the pipe so that it’s clean and straight. Rotate the cutter around the circumference of the pipe until it severs cleanly through it.

5. Ream the inside of the pipe: Use a reaming tool to remove any remaining burrs or sharp edges from inside the cut end of the pipe.

6. Apply cutting oil: Spread a generous amount of cutting oil on the exterior of the cut end of the pipe to reduce friction while threading.

7. Select your die: Choose a threading die appropriate for your project’s needs regarding both size and type (such as tapered or straight).

8. Attach die to stock: Securely affix your selected die into a compatible die stock handle to guide your threading process smoothly.

9. Align die with pipe end: Position your stock handle with its attached die over the end of your already-cut and prepared pipe, ensuring that everything is properly aligned before proceeding.

10. Start threading: Begin turning your stock handle clockwise to press the die into the pipe, allowing its teeth to start cutting the desired threads into the pipe exterior. Adding more cutting oil as necessary, continue rotating your handle until the die has threaded through your required length for a secure connection.

11. Reverse the process: Turn your die stock handle counter-clockwise to disengage from the newly-formed threads, removing your threading mechanism with care to avoid damaging your pipe’s fresh threads in any way.

12. Clean and inspect the finished threads: Wipe away excess oil, metal shavings, and debris from your completed threads before reviewing their uniformity and quality. If they are satisfactory, then congratulations – you’ve successfully threaded a pipe!

With these 12 steps, you’ll be able to thread pipes like an expert for your plumbing or DIY needs. Remember to exercise proper safety precautions and practice patience throughout the threading process for optimal results.