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Cardboard Dulcimer build

I've been learning a lot from several dulcimer forums on builds, styles, pups, preamps etc. Because of budget, cardboard seems to be my entry into my first build.

I've chosen to try a teardrop instead of a CB design and thought to ask about the types of cardboard I might try.

Single wall(3/16) for bottom & sound board seems a bit light so I thought either gluing 2 singles together or getting some double wall sheets to start with. The other thought was to find some 1/8-3/16 non corrugated about what some cigar boxes are made of top & bottom. The side wall could be 2" single wall backed with lining of another single but recessed in so the top and bottom would have a seat to glue to. Head & tail stock made from wood some reinforcing cardboard or luan ribs inside.

Any thought if this would be strong enough or any pitfall here?

Thanks Wyndham

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Mr. Toad on April 10, 2011 at 7:47am

I don't have any advice but I sure am interested in the outcome. Keep us posted on your project and how it sounds when it is finnished.

Permalink Reply by Wyndham Dennison on April 10, 2011 at 12:55pm

Thanks, That's great.With those ratios, a box can be made any size. Staple office supply carries flat cb sheets 32x40, so one can make a long box.

Wyndham

Permalink Reply by Diane in Chicago on April 10, 2011 at 1:19pm

http://www.folkcraft.com/2311071.html?fri=23b6cd9fb611bb6888f36d507...

http://www.backyardmusic.com/Dulcimers.html

Folks in the mountain dulcimer world are pretty happy with these instruments for starting out and for children -- like us!

It might be fun to make one with corrugated plastic, and hold it together with colored duct tape. Then it would be weatherproof.

Permalink Reply by Wyndham Dennison on April 10, 2011 at 1:27pm

Here's where the fun begins. Remember decoupage and now we have inkjet printers that can print some amazing stuff. I remember seeing old B&W movies that someone traveled around Europe or where ever and they had sticker from all these places on their suitcases. Card board would be a great base to put all kinds of images, sheet music, replica posters from by gone times and it would add to the strength as well.

Wyndham

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