Making and Carving and Playing an Indian Flute

[Donna_T]

I'm hoping someone else has already gotten this 'wild hair' and can give me some advice. A couple of years ago, I bought a cedar blank to make an Indian Flute (6 hole.) I roughed it out, glued it up, and put the 'reed' on it so I could try it out for sound. I'm not happy with it--can't get that clear sound that is so desirable.

So, I guess my question is...is there a place where I can get a blank/kit/really good instructions for making one that will sound good? Is the secret in the wood, number of holes (5 vs 6), reed, or is it pretty much the fault or ability of the carver?

Of interest: I've read that learning a foreign language or learning a musical instrument is one of the proven ways to delay the onset of senility/alzheimers/aging process. So this project could have some long term benefits. I'm thinking that I want to use a combination of power carving and hand carving on this project to get some kind of outdoor scene on it like a gunstock.

Advice? Expertise? [move][/move]HELP!!

Donna T

I attended a seminar given by an Native American on flutes and other indian wood-related art. After he finished, I had a chance to talk with him about flutes. He admitted that some of the best instruction and the perfect hole pattern came from one of Ben Hunt's books.
Sorry, I don't remember which, I suppose I could go through my library when I get home. If I have it, I will let you know.

[muffy]

I know a man that makes a lot fifes .Same thing?? He would give you any help you would want to know about fifes.Same thing?? Ill give you his e-mail address if you want it. ....... muffy

[Bandaid]

Hi Donna...for your interest, there is an article on how flutes are made at www.native-american-flutes.com. Also there are some great pics of carved flutes at www.heartsongflutes.com. Check out Google for 'flute carving', there's a whole swack of sites on the subject.
Let us know how you make out.

[Donna_T]

Thanks everyone for the good info,
I know it would be easier to just buy one, but like all do-it-yourselfers, I'd like to try my hand at making one all by myself. Getting the 'key' right may be the hardest part--that and getting the totum right.

I check a couple of sites last night, but will pursue the search when I get another opportunity. Thanks Muffy and Bandaid.

Rick, I see there are several of Ben's books listed for sale on the web. If you have an idea of which one tells about making a flute, I'll just try to order one. Thanks for narrowing down the search.

Has anyone who is not a professional flute maker/seller made one that sounds good, too?

Donna

Amazing! the first Ben Hunt book I pull out of the bookcase was the right one. (Great step-by-step instructions)

by W. Ben Hunt
'The Complete How-to book of Indiancraft'
Pages 151 & 152

ISBN 0-02-011690-X
Macmillan publishing

[Donna_T]

Thanks Rick for taking the time to find the book for me. I appreciate all the info I need to try to find it on ebay or online somewhere.

I appreciate your advice and info.

Donna T

Try ADDALL or BookFinder
Both are good

[Donna_T]

Rick,
Those are new sites for me so I appreciate knowing about them. A woodcarver can never have too many 'favorite' sites. Thanks!
Donna T

[stevefrfla]

Donna_T: I recently found while cleaning my office a book by W Ben Hunt on 'The complete howto book of Indian craft'. It has the how to's on making a 'Indian Flageolet' or a love flute.
Is this something you might be interested in?? I could scan the article and email it to you. If you are interested let be know.

steve