First Gourd Banjo Project (mostly finished)

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Posted by TD_Frailin on Sunday, April 21, 2013

2 people like this

Well, I finished (sort of) my first gourd banjo build this weekend. I used the Minwax Antique Oil Finish. Put about 5 coats on and it turned out nice. I strung it up and I'm currently waiting for the nylgut strings to stretch. It can take a few hours, and sometimes over night before they can be tuned properly.

I'm not wild about the narrow bone nut, but it serves it's purpose for now. I might try making one that fits the neck better. Also, I'm experiencing some fingerboard buzzing on the 4th string around the 5th peg tuner area. I'm thinking I might have to do some more sanding/milling on the fingerboard. There seems to be a slight inconsistency or waviness around that 5th string peg area.

I am also planning on adding a sound hole. It sounds good right now, but I think it will sound even better once I add the hole. Everything fits so tightly that it seems like the sound has nowhere to go and is slightly muffled.

Here's the first test of the sound/tone of this banjo:

https://soundcloud.com/tdbartnick/sound-test-1st-gourd-banjo

Here are a couple of more photos of the banjo:

5 comments on “First Gourd Banjo Project (mostly finished)”

GrizClaw Says:
Sunday, April 21, 2013 @11:40:33 AM

Travis, that is an awesome looking banjo....the headstock is great....nice job! Rick

TD_Frailin Says:
Sunday, April 21, 2013 @1:56:38 PM

Thanks Rick!

mike gregory Says:
Sunday, April 21, 2013 @6:08:39 PM

The headstock seems to be traveling from the traditonal Past into a bright new Future.
You're an inspiration to a whole new generation of gourd builders.