Nate

Nate, I see you posted a question back in 2013 about length of time to build a dulcimer. I'm sure by now you have had a multitude of answers. However, I would like to add my thoughts as a novice builder.

I may be labeled as OCD about some things but when I make the fretboard I agree with the label. I take most of the build time on the fretboard using a digital caliper and a framing square. I want the frets to be set within a fraction of the designated measurements. The fretboard has to be perfectly straight as I can get it. A slight curve can be a disaster. After the frets are installed I use the framing square again to make sure they are not too high or too low.

The next time consuming step is the custom head stock. I have had many years of carving duck decoys, fish decoys, building furniture, thrush weaving chairs and restoring antiques. I was raised in an automotive repair business, painting and building. Much of that past experience has been a big factor in dulcimer making, A professional builder might look at my instruments and scratch his head. Oh!, I'm 83 years old and still cherish every moment to learn something new. 

Yes, the body or box is very important too, the type of wood does make a difference. A builder can make a beautiful instrument but it all shows up as soon as the music begins. Speaking as a "voice of experience".

The air The Pride of Petravore was used by Percy French (1854-1920) for the song he wrote Eileen Og. It was recorded by many, the Dubliner's included.

I've not posted photos for a while here and I'll have to read up on it again.   Yes, that teardrop dulcimer turned out very lovely, all out of woods mentioned in the Bible.  I'm getting ready to make another hourglass dulcimer mostly out of Bible woods again.  aloha, irene

"grow closer to the sharp iron and wood philosophy every day" is my way of describing my passion for tradition.

After you left a comment on my discussion, I had to come over here and check out your profile, and hey! We have the same favorite song picked out! We're favorite-song siblings.

Hi Nate. I hope you will post some photos soon of some of your instruments.  The ones you describe and the one in your profile pic look amazing! 

Hi Nate, and welcome to the wonderful world of the Friends of the Mountain Dulcimer.  It's a good place to come, spend some time, learn about the dulcimer, and to meet some good people.

Ben

Welcome NateBuildToys to Friends of the Mountain Dulcimer. Glad you joined. You may want to consider joining the Dulcimer Making group. Best wishes on your dulcimer journey.

Hey Nate, welcome aboard. Glad ya found us.

Welcome to FOTMD NateBuildsToys. It is good to have you aboard. I look forward to your participation in these discussions.

Ken

"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."