I like to dry my bamboo fast near the fireplace
because if the bamboo cracks then I didnt want to make
that bamboo into a flute anyways and if the bamboo
doesnt crack that is proof to me that it is strong,
durable and is going to be an awesome flute. When
selecting pieces I just visualize the finished product
and if it looks good I take it. That might be hard
for you if you cant see well. I dont count nodes when
selecting because the bamboo I use doesnt have lots of
nodes close together like madake. I also like to take
the root out of the ground and leave lots of it on the
flute. I only cut enough of the roots to be able to
burn through the bottom with my rods. that way my
flutes are weighty on the end and make good clubs if
need be as well as look real wild and natural.
jason
--- Tuscia-Falconer <falconer@enternet.co.nz> wrote:
> Jason, good to hear of another's 'street-wise' flute
> making techniques.
> Don't think I'd go along with the fireplace approach
> to drying the bamboo,
> too fast IMO, I open up the bore with some punches
> and a pipe while they are
> fresh and soft, then let them dry in a shady, dry
> and warm, open shelf.
> At the moment because I want to get on with the
> making part, I am only
> waiting about a month, it is Summer here at present,
> but I would like to cut
> some pieces before Winter and in time be able to
> wait a couple of years, so
> I may get to know how much difference that makes.
> Because I am almost blind and definitely cant see
> well enough to 'burn' the
> finger holes, I can't read a tapemeasure, I have had
> a friend make me a jig
> into which I place my bamboo. The hardwood jig has
> the finger holes cut into
> it. I am making 'C' tuned flutes modelled on a
> traditionally made flute, it
> is a kind of "apples for apples" approach.
>
> I like to play with others when the occassion arises
> so a close
> approximation to being in pitch is useful there, but
> I understand the
> 'no-tune' school.
> I also like the 'harmonic' school approach.
>
> What are your selection parameters when cutting a
> piece of bamboo ?
>
> Kel.
>
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