Cardboard Dulcimer build

Posted by Wyndham Dennison on April 10, 2011 at 1:17pm

I've been learning a lot from several dulcimer forums on builds, styles, pups, preamps etc. Because of budget, cardboard seems to be my entry into my first build.

I've chosen to try a teardrop instead of a CB design and thought to ask about the types of cardboard I might try.

Single wall(3/16) for bottom & sound board seems a bit light so I thought either gluing 2 singles together or getting some double wall sheets to start with. The other thought was to find some 1/8-3/16 non corrugated about what some cigar boxes are made of top & bottom. The side wall could be 2" single wall backed with lining of another single but recessed in so the top and bottom would have a seat to glue to. Head & tail stock made from wood some reinforcing  cardboard or luan ribs inside.

Any thought if this would be strong enough or any pitfall here?

Thanks Wyndham

 

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Replies

  • Wyndham Dennison April 10, 2011 at 8:27pm

    Here's where the fun begins. Remember decoupage and now we have inkjet printers that can print some amazing stuff. I remember seeing old B&W movies that someone traveled around Europe or where ever and they had sticker from all these places on their suitcases. Card board would be a great base to put all kinds of images, sheet music, replica posters from by gone times and it would add to the strength as well.

    Wyndham

  • Diane in Chicago April 10, 2011 at 8:19pm

    http://www.folkcraft.com/2311071.html?fri=23b6cd9fb611bb6888f36d507...

     

    http://www.backyardmusic.com/Dulcimers.html

     

    Folks in the mountain dulcimer world are pretty happy with these instruments for starting out and for children -- like us!

     

    It might be fun to make one with corrugated plastic, and hold it together with colored duct tape.  Then it would be weatherproof.

  • Wyndham Dennison April 10, 2011 at 7:55pm

    Thanks, That's great.With those ratios, a box can be made any size. Staple office supply carries flat cb sheets 32x40, so one can make a  long box.

    Wyndham

  • Mr. Toad April 10, 2011 at 2:47pm
    I don't have any advice but I sure am interested in the outcome. Keep us posted on your project and how it sounds when it is finnished.
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