Lutherie requires precision work with a material that prefers to bend and sway with the weather!
I have learned that it is better to accommodate the will of the wood then to force it to meet my demands. I have tried both approaches and have learned that the will of the wood always wins!
Working with the [...]
Monthly Archive for September, 2009
I was recently asked about using back-bevels on a plane blade. Putting a small bevel on the back of the blade effectively increases the angle at which the sharp edge slices the wood. The higher angle causes less (or no) tear-out on tricky or figured hardwoods.
One of my favorite planes is a high angle Chinese [...]
The Okeh Laughing Record – 1922
[Audio clip: view full post to listen]
Friends Of The Mountain Dulcimer
Posted in Dulcimer on Sep 14th, 2009
Friends Of The Mountain Dulcimer is a social network for dulcimer players; think of it as Facebook for people who are mountain dulcimer players, makers and enthusiasts,
There are already well over 100 members and you can be one too!
I am often asked which species of wood makes the best sounding dulcimer. Any answer would be very subjective at best. Each tonewood has the potential to become an instrument with a fine, unique voice.
There are some generalizations as to the potential tone of various woods but the outcome is dependent on the design and [...]