PARTS and SUPPLIERS
Drums: There are many options for drums, both tuneable and fixed head. We have used 8 inch drums for convenience –
larger 10 or 12 inch options are viable. Generally higher quality = higher price! It is also possible to buy a cheaper tuneable
drum and replace the skin with a more expensive better quality type)
Tuning Machines: these are generally available from local music shops in standard guitar configuration (2 x strips of three).
They are cheaper on line, and may also be purchased as individual items (which means you can vary the spacing) and as 2 x
strips of 6-in-a-row (meant for 12-string guitars). These have the advantage of being easy to fit and easy to line up for hole
drilling etc. (Note –suppliers from China are much cheaper, but have long delivery times)
Woods: oak planking and pine dowelling are commonly available at local timber merchants. Hardwood dowelling is available
on-line.
Hardware: components are standard B&Q, Screwfix or local hardware shop items.
Strings: Nylon filament such as Fishing line are easily available in a variety of thicknesses. They are cheap, but usually come
in lengths of 10 –40 metre spools, so wasteful if you are only making one or two instruments. Alternatively Harp strings can
be purchased on-line –these are available as nylon or gut if preferred, they are expensive but you can try variations to suit. Or
you could use a set of Classical Guitar strings (though these will include wound bass strings which give a different character to
the instrument).
Rockmusicshop, & various on ebay
Stagg 14884 Pre-tuned (fixed)
6R6L 12 String Machines Chrome
12 String Western Machine Heads
Ash Dowel 22.5 mm 1 metre
200, 150, 100 lb x 10 metres
Harp strings 4th octave C, E
3rd octave G, D, F
2nd octave E
Bow Brand from camacharps.co.uk
