On 3/7/05 8:56 PM, "Peter Ross" <peteross@cloudhandsmusic.com> wrote:
Karl Signal pointed out that I had the wrong heading on this email, so I'm
sending it again so it can be looked up in the archives etc.
> A few more ideas about binding shakuhachi and repairing cracks.
>
> Sometimes it is necessary to add super glue to the crack but often not.
> The first step is to wrap a damp cloth around the flute the length of the
> crack for 24 hours or so. This will swell the bamboo and seal the crack.
> Put the bindings on while the flute is wet and the crack is sealed or
> swollen shut. When it dries the dark water spots will evaporate. This may
> be all that needs to be done. The crack may even be hard to see.
>
> If a flute is well bound (tight) and a thin crack develops it may be
> necessary to add super glue or even bees wax, esp. if the flute is leaking
> air and won't play properly. The potential problem with super glue is that
> it doesn't seem to allow the flute to contract and might in some cases
> actually cause the bamboo to split again. I know of no reason why a
> v-shaped groove should be cut into the bamboo along the crack as someone
> suggested.
>
> If there is a crack at the very top of the mouthpiece either in front or
> back a binding can't be done and glue seems necessary.
>
> For binding material I use clear fishing line as it stretches when applied
> and seems to stay very tight. I use 20 lb. test. or stronger. Some makers
> in Japan are also using fishing line now instead of inlaid bindings which
> may weaken the bamboo. The advantage of inlaid bindings is that done right
> they lay flush with the bamboo and you can comfortably rest your fingers on
> top of them when playing.
>
> I bind all my flutes before they crack. It's not foolproof, but usually
> prevents cracks from developing. At most you'll just get a thin crack that
> may not need any attention. I've seen unbound expensive shakuhachi split
> open to almost half an inch wide with the filler inside totally wrecked.
> Also it's a very good idea to keep your flute in an airtight plastic bag
> when not playing.
>
> Hope this is helpful. For more info. on traditional inlaid bindings get in
> touch with Monty or Tom Deaver or Kinya Sogawa.
>
> Peter
>
>
>
>
>
> Peter Ross
> http://www.cloudhandsmusic.com
> APDO 542-4100
> Grecia, Costa Rica
> Central America
> 011 (506) 494-5170
>
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>
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