Canjo using a "Spirits Can"

Hi All, Has anyone built a canjo using one of the C.B.Gitty "Spirits Cans" yet? I think they looked cool so I ordered a few of these cans for my Cub Scout Den. So I did not buy the pre-built ones. Instead I want the scouts to build them from scratch. I am providing them with pre-fretted neck with separate hardware and string. Should be fun!

Question: From the images on the Gitty store I see that they crimp the bottom edge of the can's mouth. What I can't tell, is there a piece of tape or foam added to this crimped area for some reason? See image:

Spirits Canjo Series: "Dr. Kilmer's Swamp Root" One-string Tin Can Banjo

https://www.cbgitty.com/search.php?search_query=canjos&section=...

Also, how far up the bottom of the can does the hole for the string need to be punched.

Thanks for any info.

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Permalink Reply by BrianQ. on May 19, 2021 at 9:38am

John, that cut out is for string clearance. What you’re seeing is the leftover flux/slag from when they solder the mouth onto the can? FYI Foam dampens vibration, we need as much as we can get in order for it to resonate fully? From what I remember, Ben marks his string hole 5/16” from the bottom of the can using a fretted neck? He has a really good book about building Canjo’s at cbgitty, it’s pretty informative? Good luck on these builds :)

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Permalink Reply by BrianQ. on May 19, 2021 at 11:41am

Forgot to add, you can always email support over at cbgitty, most likely it’ll be Nick, he’s really good about answering questions pertaining all to their kits & merchandise. Even if it’s building information? Ben is real tight on customer service!

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Permalink Reply by John-e-Mac on May 19, 2021 at 2:58pm

Thanks Brian. I'll give the gang at CBGitty a shout.

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Permalink Reply by BrianQ. on May 20, 2021 at 6:42am

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Permalink Reply by John-e-Mac on May 20, 2021 at 6:49am

Thanks! I wondered where it went.

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Permalink Reply by John-e-Mac on May 20, 2021 at 6:45am

Got some good answers back from Nick at C.B.Gitty.

No foam is used. It looks like it's just a shadow where the crimp is made.
The notch in the neck should be to the edge of the can. So after crimping it will be around 3/8"-1/2".
The string is placed so that it can pass freely through the mouth of the can without touching the sides. I think it's in the middle of the can, about 1/2"-3/4" up.

Thanks Nick!