What size string for a diddley bo ?

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Permalink Reply by Ryan Rose on October 31, 2011 at 2:23pm

I use leftovers. I dig through all the strings I didn't use on other builds, and pick one based on what sound I want. Heavier strings for a deeper sound; lighter strings for a sweeter sound.

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Permalink Reply by Artist Formerly Known as Matt on October 31, 2011 at 2:55pm

If you're building more than one, I suggest you try and A one one and a B er so on the other.

This will allow you to try different tunings in the different string sizes.

I kinda use left overs, but my preference is for the heavier strings. I use around a .42 and tune to E or G.

 

 

AFKAM

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Permalink Reply by Mike "Katfish" Karash on October 31, 2011 at 6:42pm

I just started to explore diddley bows, have built 2, a one string, and a two string. Have decided to use piano wire. Most similar to "traditional" broom wire. Bought a whole selection of mid-range sizes from a supplier on eBay. Larger sizes for lower tuning without the zipper sound/feel of wound strings. Very happy with the results so far. Recommended size according to online source (http://www.ehow.com/how_10043362_make-lap-style-diddley-bow.html) is from .032 to .056 inch gauge.

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Permalink Reply by RickKramer on October 31, 2011 at 6:48pm

Yeah I was gonna make a comment about wound wire and the zipper sound.What was the cost of the piano wire and how much did you have to buy?Can you post the eBay link?

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Permalink Reply by Mike "Katfish" Karash on October 31, 2011 at 7:38pm

I knew I'd be building a few so the most cost effective deal I found was: 18.95 + 3.07 s/h for a total of 99 feet of wire! The assortment  was from .031" at 3 feet (piano size 13) to .047" at 17 feet (piano size 21) and each size in between. Length increases with each size up. This should be enough for 25 or 30 diddley bows! The seller on eBay is showard88

The eBay store is Howard Piano Industries

This link takes you to the item: http://www.ebay.com/itm/110452804420?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_...

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Permalink Reply by RickKramer on October 31, 2011 at 9:36pm

Thanks for the info.

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Permalink Reply by Matt Dudley on November 4, 2011 at 1:40pm

I had a D string from a bass and a high B from a guitar. the B is too high and I've just been too lazy to change it out

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Permalink Reply by RickKramer on November 5, 2011 at 12:16am

I got some .042 stainless wire we use at work for safety wiring.I am going to give it a try this weekend.

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Permalink Reply by RickKramer on November 12, 2011 at 12:38pm

So I gave ita try and I am not totally happy with it.I may have to give piano wire a try.

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