I'm trying to make a flute like instrument. I used to use bamboo but bamboo has a problem of cracking once it is dry. I'm looking for other alternative materials that will make similar sounds like the bamboo.

Any suggestion is much appreciated.

PVC Pipe?

Thanks for the quick response. I'll give it a try. However, is PVC pipe able to be bend if need to?

Hi justTom,

Funny you should ask:

http://wgsc.com/pvc/how-to-bend-pvc-pipe.htm

http://billpentz.com/woodworking/cyclone/PVC.cfm

Hey, are you using an L1®?

Please tell us more about your music:

• What kind(s) of music you play?
  
• Where you do it (size, type of venue)?
  
• Who is there (audience) - how many, what are they doing while you are performing?
  
• Do you have a web site?
  
• If no web site, could you post a picture of your ensemble?
  

Thank you.

Any PVC bending instructions should include a warning to perform the procedures in well ventilated areas only, preferably outdoors with a breeze blowing the fumes away from your face. An appropriate respirator should be worn. I have bent PVC conduit and it is nasty stuff but it can be done safely with proper precautions.

Have you tried or considered sealing the bamboo to prevent it from drying out? There is also a product called LiquidWood which is a two part epoxy. It has a very liquid consistency and penetrates into porous wood where it then cures. It takes a bit of experimentation to get the mix ratio just right or it can remain tacky after it has cured. You may only need to seal the end grain of the bamboo to deal with the cracking. I have not worked with bamboo.

Mark, thanks so much for your input. I'm greatly appreciated. Do you remember what the name or brand of the sealing for bamboo to prevent it from drying? I live in Wisconsin and close to a Menards store where they sell home improvement stuff. However, I'm not sure what to buy to seal the bamboo from drying and eventually cracked.

This is the instrument I'm attempting to make.

Qeej

Hi justTom,

Quite the endeavor I must say. I think twice before changing the strings on my 12 string acoustic guitar. I'd love to hear it when you have your unit finished.

Interestingly, the product I was suggesting is manufactured in Wisconsin. The product I was mentioning is called LiquidWood. It is often used to repair rotted or damaged wood. I thought that this could be beneficial for you because of the products ability to penetrate and solidify. You will find more information on their website. I don't know if it will work for your application.

There may be other more suitable products for sealing the end grain of the bamboo. You may want to ask the staff in the paint department at Menards.

I look forward to reading your responses to ST's questions.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Le5,