Thank y'all for the kind words! It warms my heart and keeps me going!

Too much fun, Sir, too much! 

If I ever go out your way, Lexie...

Thank you, Patty.

There have been some mechanical studies concerning the development of sound holes on a violin, and they show that their evolution and current shape is important to the sound. I've heard someone has been studying the sound holes on dulcimers, but I don't know who that is. If anyone knows please pass that on to me.

But in my limited work, I've found that I can get just as much equalization in the box with the sound holes hidden as I can with them for the world to see, and my sound box still shakes away and sings her song. Plus I want to make more art on the top of my machines--builders have been painting and decorating them since the dulcimer has been made according to the catalog I have, so it's not far fetched to do so. 

Greg and Tish really mentored Val and me during our first KMW. But I wasn't hiding them then. 

Really big smiles to all!

I'm fascinated by the soundhole placement, Mark.  Tish Westman plays a dulcimer she made that has no visible sound holes and it sounds great, too. 

They sure are pretty!

Mark, these two dulcimers look very eloquent and sleek having the sound holes hidden, they have a wonderful tone. Hey I would give you room and board for one, sounds like a good deal. 

Beautiful dulcimers, Mark.  Pleasing tones too.

Tell me Mark.  Are you having fun yet?