banjered - Posted - 06/07/2013:  07:19:41

Anyone found a better way to trim a hide head during installation than using a sheetrock knife? Surgical scissors? Banjered

three fingers - Posted - 06/07/2013:  07:31:20

I used a single edge razor blade, but I like the idea of tiny scissors.

Gordy Ohliger - Posted - 06/07/2013:  07:37:52

I've always used a razor blade. Best do it soon..before it dries too much.

m_watson - Posted - 06/07/2013:  07:48:28

I've used inexpensive drug store nail care scissors, less likely to scratch the inside of the tension hoop. They're usually available in a couple of sizes. Avoid the smallest ones though, they're too fragile.

wtalley - Posted - 06/07/2013:  08:21:00

I let the head dry.  If the installation looks good, the tension hoop is removed and the excess trimmed with scissors.  Any sharp scissors will do the job.  A bit longer to do it this way, but it makes me feel comfortable.

jbalch - Posted - 06/07/2013:  08:36:09

quote:

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Originally posted by wtalley

 

I let the head dry.  If the installation looks good, the tension hoop is removed and the excess trimmed with scissors.  Any sharp scissors will do the job.  A bit longer to do it this way, but it makes me feel comfortable.

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Me too.

davidppp - Posted - 06/07/2013:  10:48:17

I was surprised, the first time I tried, that I really could remount and snug up the head (1/16" all around) after re-wetting for a better fit -- with no ill effect.

rot-n-dobe - Posted - 06/14/2013:  16:09:05

i agree with talley and balch. if you use a razor against the tension hoop you mess up the plating and can cut into the brass. much better to let it dry, take it off and trim with scissors then remount. shouldn't need to rewet it, the origonal mounting will give it the shape and it will keep the shape as long as you don't leave it sit off especially in humid weather. i only have one banjo with a plastic head and i do this all the time.

Bart Veerman - Posted - 06/14/2013:  18:53:03

Yup, dry is much easier and gets you a cleaner cut.

banjonz - Posted - 06/14/2013:  21:52:46

When I reskin a banjo, I put it in a warm place to dry ( usually my hot water cupboard). When it is all nice and dry, I check it for tension then using a craft knife ( this is what we call them here) just trim off the dry excess. Works a treat.

goldtopia - Posted - 06/15/2013:  07:27:12

Yes, I have done it many times in the old days.  It does not matter what you cut it with providing it has become very dry. It may still have a rugged edge  but that's the way it was in the old days, though if you wish  you could trim it close with a razor blade if so inclined. There are now short cut methods that they call premounted that make vellum fitting easier. Its a departure from traditional methods and those less able of traditional methods prefer this simpler way of doing things.

Bill - Posted - 06/15/2013:  08:21:39

I just mounted a head using the advice above about scissors.  I removed the head after it dried and trimmed it with scissors.  Makes a neat job and is less risky than using a razor blade while the head is mounted.  It worked like a charm.

Here's the wet head installed:

banjohangout.org/myhangout/pho...albumid=0

And here's the finished product:

banjohangout.org/myhangout/pho...albumid=0

Edited by - Bill on 06/15/2013 08:22:20