The lap steel that I said I wouldn't sell, I sold it and so I needed something cool to replace it. I built this beast of a very old ironing board (a $10 find) and a Blu-J cigar box from 1910.
The nut and bridge risers are made out of an old yard stick. I made the headstock and fretboard from oak and used another trusty Gretsch pickup to make the thing really sing. I also added mother of pearl fret markers on this one which is the first time I've done that, normally I just burn them in.
I've coveted one of these ironing board/steels ever since I saw the one Justin Johnson plays. I think Madurobob is responsible for that exceptional work of art.
Comments
Fantastic build. If you don't mind me taking inspiration from this one then I reckon I've found a near-future build to have a go at. Thanks for sharing and inspiring. Much appreciated.
Check the video out, man that barometer lap steel sounded incredible.
Thanks smilingdog1, I really like that mini version you built. Very cool.
Here's a lap steel I made out of an 1840's barometer you might like:
https://www.facebook.com/CharlesAtchisonFolkArtisan/videos/16222179...
Sounds amazing!
What scale is this and number of frets?
I build the child size versions of these and would like to step up to a large one.
Thanks smilingdog1, here is a video of this instrument if you want to hear it: https://youtu.be/M8ODGRixRIg
I like the simplicity of this one in how you placed everything on top without much modification to ironing board. Plus you found a practical way to incorporate the cigar box. looks very nice and I bet it plays great.