Bracing

Here's the inside of the Kalimba. I had to add extra support under the sound board to stop some of the feedback. It ended up adding more definition to each note, as well as projection. It also stopped the feedback issue. It's readdy to secure the back, and give it a final tuning.

Electric kalimba

I just made this electric kalimba from a cigar box, an old rake, and some parts from radio shack. It's an alto in g major.

Clinic

Kevin playing with the Lee Pardini trio in clinic, on my bop kit.

Finished

Unfortunately for me, this is where I have to stop work. Someone else gets to have the fun of finishing up this instrument.

New Neck

Well, here's the second try. This one came out really nice. And, it went pretty quick too.

F@CK...!

Routers happen... The bit grabbed and ate the end of the neck :( this was one of the last cuts... Now I've got to start all over on the neck. Damn...!

Taking shape

Here's the neck as it's taking shape.

Fret slots

fingerboard slotted for frets.

Dry fit

The fretboard is glued, neck joint dry fit, and headstock cut down. Nest will be frets and shaping.

Dry fit

the neck is dry fit, and still needs to be shaped, but this is a good look at what is to come.

Neck joint

Maple neck tenon cut and dry fit.

Neck mortise

Just cut the neck mortise after flush trimming the soundboard. That's the neck and the fretboard sitting to the left.

Glue up

Gluing the soundboard to the body.

I love this machine...!

I did a ton of work today and rented this mini skid loader to do it. I love this thing. I want one for myself. It's really handy. I got all the dirt around the patio leveled, the walk way excavated, and the base laid. Then I spread compost, and did up a few odd jobs, all within 8 hours.

Bracing

Soundboard

This is the soundboard after gluing, sanding, and cutting it down. The bracing is made of cedar as well as the top. The X is joined by a bridal joint.

Soundboard

This is the cedar top for the mandolin. It's bookmatched and glued.
Todd Plummer