When I first got on the forum I ran across several posts for fatties. Looked great so, I had to give them a try. Did an online search for techniques, recipes, etc. and came across a Boy Scout Troop in the Akron, OH area that sold "Fattie Pistons" online for about $10.00. The proceeds went to helping disadvantaged teens attend a local summer camp.
After more research, found several different styles for fattie pistons. Almost all consisted of water potable PVC pipe (hence, Padrefan, the use of PVC) I did see one design made of stainless steel. Wouldn't that be great to get in an exchange package!
These things could not be more simple.
Vicki B- here ya go---
Supplies:
1 - 7 1/2 inch piece 2 inch PVC pipe - about $1.00 locally
1- 8-10 inch 1 1/4 inch PVC pipe - about $1.00 locally
2- 1 1/4 inch PVC caps - about $0.89 each locally
sand the burrs off the ends of the PVC pipe
wash all pieces in soapy water before using
Place the caps on the ends of the 1 1/4 inch pipe and you're ready to go. I did not use any glue, so the ends can be removed for cleaning. I throw mine in the dishwasher for ease of cleaning.
http://www.fattiepistons.blogspot.com has great pics for how to use the fattie piston. The only other thing I've found (from another forum entry) is to put the sausage in a one gallon zip-lock bag to flatten-it's the perfect size for a fattie and no mess. When you have your fattie square rolled out just cut the sides of the plastic bag and flip over on to your bacon.