I'm new to cacti and have a quick question.

Is it easier to work with pieces or powder? SWIM plans on making tea, doing resin extractions, and possibly a mescaline extraction.

If I were going to extract a certain alkaloid, I would do it starting from powdered material since the surface exposed to the solvent would be much greater than if the material was just chopped in small pieces. I'd also be careful during the drying process, so as not to let the fresh plant rot, nor damage the alkaloids.

agreed, for isolation purposes, powdered is easy with 69ron's tek. For the whole experience on the other hand, which is personally highly recommended, WHOLE CACTUS + RESIN. best way is just cold acidic water + evap. No boiling required, maybe some soaking. There are methods available all over for this.