I have just finished the 5th one in this series of mountain dulcimers, using two paired boxes. This last one has a cherry fingerboard, maple neck and two Las Cabrillas boxes. The others are in my pictures, if you'd like to see them.
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Thanks, Joe! I got the idea for the tail termination from another builder, don't remember who or where, but whoever you are, it looks really great - thanks! Yes it is a split brass tube. Drill the 1/4" hole first, slice it off at the halfway mark and in goes the half tube. Then cut the slots. I used the old dremel cutting wheels - the small ones you have to screw onto the bit. They have a pretty small kerf, and don't mind the brass.
The tube diameter was a bit smaller than 1/4", and it fit in just right. I used a slender nail to hold the strings in place while I wound them on, run it through the holes in the balls. Keeps them nice and straight, too so they look tidy. Out comes the nail at the end.
The strap button is standard issue. I got an idea from the Mountain dulcimer ning group on how to make a strap with yarn and buttons. I have some antique Czech glass ones and leftover yarns about, so that was pretty simple for me. Seems silly to spend $20 on a strap when the instrument cost about that much, all said and done.
Diane, what beautiful job. I love the way you did the string holders at the bridge. Very cool. DId you split a piece of brass pipe? What did you use for the strap holder, anything special?
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I'm buzzing over to look at the others now.
Thanks for sharing the pix.
Paul H.
The tube diameter was a bit smaller than 1/4", and it fit in just right. I used a slender nail to hold the strings in place while I wound them on, run it through the holes in the balls. Keeps them nice and straight, too so they look tidy. Out comes the nail at the end.
The strap button is standard issue. I got an idea from the Mountain dulcimer ning group on how to make a strap with yarn and buttons. I have some antique Czech glass ones and leftover yarns about, so that was pretty simple for me. Seems silly to spend $20 on a strap when the instrument cost about that much, all said and done.