Difference between revisions of "Luthiers"

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(Created page with "A luthier is somebody who makes or repairs stringed instruments (See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luthier). There are a number of stringed instrument projects happening at th...")
 
 
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We are learning, by observation and most importantly by experimentation, to work with different traditional and modern materials.
 
We are learning, by observation and most importantly by experimentation, to work with different traditional and modern materials.
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The [[Ukulele Orchestra of Hackspace]] has inspired quite a lot of this activity and it is our goal to one day form a band from all hand-hacked instruments!
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= Tools =
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Cutting frets is a stressful time for the luthier!
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We would like to build a jig for cutting frets, e.g. http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Luthier-Tool-PRECISION-FINGERBOARD-SLOTTING-JIG-/171023141236?pt=UK_Guitar_Accessories&var=&hash=item27d1c60974 , however these are limited to a single scale length. If we can be sure of the accuracy of a laser cutter or CNC mill then we could make the scale length jigs guides on a per-project basis.
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= Materials =
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* hardwoods
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* fretwire
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* tuning pegs
 +
* nut blanks
 +
* bridges
 +
* strings
 +
 +
Bear in mind that we are hackers, not professional luthiers, and so we will typically: -
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* A: use what's to hand
 +
** the plentiful resources of the hackspace
 +
** innovative repurposing of scrap items
 +
* B: buy it in
 +
** do loads of online research and get the best we can afford
 +
** get the cheapest item on ebay!
 +
** buy something on prospect that might do the trick!
 +
 +
Do not underestimate the value of learning through trying (and sometimes failing) and running as many prototypes as it takes.
 +
 +
= Skills =
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 +
 +
[[Category:Musical Instrument Making]]

Latest revision as of 15:00, 19 July 2013

A luthier is somebody who makes or repairs stringed instruments (See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luthier).

There are a number of stringed instrument projects happening at the Hackspace as well as occasional Luthier skill-sharing sessions sessions to which everybody is welcome to attend. We have a number of very good tools for the making and maintenance of instruments at the space including a beautifully fine Japanese pull saw with a built in depth gauge.

We are learning, by observation and most importantly by experimentation, to work with different traditional and modern materials.

The Ukulele Orchestra of Hackspace has inspired quite a lot of this activity and it is our goal to one day form a band from all hand-hacked instruments!

Tools

Cutting frets is a stressful time for the luthier! We would like to build a jig for cutting frets, e.g. http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Luthier-Tool-PRECISION-FINGERBOARD-SLOTTING-JIG-/171023141236?pt=UK_Guitar_Accessories&var=&hash=item27d1c60974 , however these are limited to a single scale length. If we can be sure of the accuracy of a laser cutter or CNC mill then we could make the scale length jigs guides on a per-project basis.


Materials

  • hardwoods
  • fretwire
  • tuning pegs
  • nut blanks
  • bridges
  • strings

Bear in mind that we are hackers, not professional luthiers, and so we will typically: -

  • A: use what's to hand
    • the plentiful resources of the hackspace
    • innovative repurposing of scrap items
  • B: buy it in
    • do loads of online research and get the best we can afford
    • get the cheapest item on ebay!
    • buy something on prospect that might do the trick!

Do not underestimate the value of learning through trying (and sometimes failing) and running as many prototypes as it takes.

Skills