Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Will King on June 21, 2014 at 4:19am

Sure can!

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Permalink Reply by Jesse Halter on June 21, 2014 at 8:31am

Ok thanks. I thought so, but I just wanted to make sure before I try. Thanks a bunch.

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Permalink Reply by Muddy Creek Guitars on June 21, 2014 at 6:30pm

Yes!

Most people call a dulcimer an instrument that is fretted diatonically (the notes to play in one key). Guitars are usually fretted chromatically (all the notes, can play in any key).

So, all of the frets of your diatonic dulcimer will also be used on your chromatic guitar. You will need to measure and carefully add in the additional frets. They are several free fret calculators online.

Good luck and happy building!

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Permalink Reply by robert jones on June 22, 2014 at 1:42am

The old saying, "Measure twice, cut once." is critical in this situation.

Measure from the nut to the center of the 12th fret and double that measurement for the uncompensated scale length.

Use the uncompensated scale length in the fret calculator of your choice.

Use the nut to fret measurements to confirm that the existing frets are in fact accurate. (Never use the fret to fret measurements.)

If the measurements are correct place masking tape where the fret slots will be cut.

Use the nut to fret measurements to layout the missing frets.

Double check the measurements and your layout.

If everything lines up properly cut your fret slots. You do have some sort of fret saw right?

Install and finish your frets.

Personally, if I was happy with the diatonic instrument in hand, I would either purchase or make another fretted chromatically.

You don't need a lot of space or tools to build a playable CBG, lot of people on here can walk you through the process.

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Permalink Reply by Jesse Halter on June 22, 2014 at 1:48am

Thank you everyone. This is such a friendly and helpful community!

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