John started carving pipes in 2003 after meeting a number of pipe carvers at that year's Chicago Pipe Show. From his start working with kits, he has constantly improved his craft. All Crosby pipes are now made using Italian briar and stems that are hand-cut from the finest German ebonite rod.

John has a 13-year tenure as a fine artist. He started by studying painting with a Chicago based painter for several years and then went on to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Jackson State University. He continued his education and earned a Master's Degree in Fine Art from Purdue, where he is currently a part of their Art and Design staff.

John views his pipe making as a natural extension of his enjoyment of pipes, tobacco, and art.