Wood

[Tunborough]

I wish I had a better grasp of the formulas and graphs involved.

Perhaps I can help you a bit.

This thread, /viewtopic.php?f=2&t=101936, introduces how WIDesigner can help whistle and flute makers. We're at work on support for reed instruments. As a sample, it can predict the playing frequencies of a smallpipe chanter about as accurately as I can measure them.

As you (and Benoit) are well aware, there are still trials and adjustments involved, but it could at least give you an idea where to start drilling finger holes.

PM me if you're interested.

[rorybbellows]

If someone wanted to have a go at making bellows what wood is good for that?


RORY

[uillmann]

I heard somewhere that ash was a traditional wood for nailed bellows. Some woods will hold a tack better than others, but I never made a nailed bellows, and don't know much about them.
Walnut has been used for stitched bellows in the past by some, and cherry is nice for a flash of color. Many other woods will do nicely, and one could use almost any decent lumber. Even softwoods will make a nice lightweight sewn bellows if weight is an issue.

[an seanduine]

Ash is quite tough. Niall Kelleher informed me it was a traditional wood for hurley sticks. In the 'States I'm more familiar with it's use by Louisville Slugger for baseball bats.

Bob

[Mr.Gumby]

it was a traditional wood for hurley sticks

It still is as far as I know.

Ash is fine for bellows, if you can get nice spalted ash it can look very distinctive too.

It's a great firewood too.

[oleorezinator]

it was a traditional wood for hurley sticks

It's a great firewood too.

Ask Mrs. Reck