Advice needed on how to drill a turning project

[WarrenM]

So besides pens, one turning project I am wanting to tackle is an exotic wood hookah. I have a nice 2' section of Spalted Tamarind that I plan to turn down in a traditional either Egyptian or Syrian style. I have the brass tubing for the stem as well as the bit for drilling. But what I am not sure on is how is the best way to go about center drilling the blank. I have thought I may need to section it into like 6"+/- sections with spacers between and glue it together afterword, but if I can do it as a 1 piece stem I would prefer it.

Here is a basic idea of my goal, just with a more elegant wood.

 

[flyitfast]

What size hole do you have to drill?
There are electricians drills that go up to 15" or more that might do the trick.
If you drill on the lathe, you will need a long bed to drill it in one piece.
Probably need more information.
Gordon

 

[WarrenM]

What size hole do you have to drill?
There are electricians drills that go up to 15" or more that might do the trick.
If you drill on the lathe, you will need a long bed to drill it in one piece.
Probably need more information.
Gordon

The hole I have to drill is 5/8" and I do have the 15" electricians bit and 15" extension should I need it.

My "big" lathe is a craftsman 12" with a 46" bed

 

[Dale Lynch]

You'll probably need a steady rest for the 2' blank to keep it from drooping.Also need a hollow tail stock to feed the bit through.A look into lamp making is probably good idea as well.