Jump to the nearly finished photos!
Clawhammer Banjo Construction
A quick, informal page just to show the progress of my prototype open back banjo.  More information and details later.

This is a prototype banjo, as are all the jigs shown on these pages.  The next round will see improved and permanent jigs, along with already contemplated changes in some of the procedures.

Specifications:

Open back "woody" banjo -- integral king rosewood tone ring on 30 yeard old black walnut rim.  Block rim.  Neck is black walnut with bubinga center lamination, bubinga fretboard and headstock veneer. Profile of rosewood ring where it meets the head is experimental, and may be modified.  Complete dimensions to follow.
Here's a shot of the completed, unfinished rim.  I'm still pondering the best finish for it.  Fill the grain and lacquer?  Tung oil?  Tru Oil ?  I'm partial to oil finishes for their simplicity and environmental friendliness, but...
Detail showing king rosewood tone ring, bevel cut, etc.  Note tight glue joints.  This is a result of careful cutting and clamping.
Planning the cuts --  The cutting jig --  The gluing jig --  Routing the diameter --  Gluing the stack
Who?
I'm Robert Edney.  I once designed and made one-of-a-kind furniture from exotic hardwoods, with sculptured joints and all that.  Now I sit at a computer most of the day.  I love the banjo, especially really good clawhammer playing.  You might say I have the banjo bug, and I'm pondering making lots of very nice clawhammer banjos as time goes on, and spending less time in front of the computer.  Feel free to email me with questions, suggestions or whatever...

[email protected]
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