Click on photos to see full-size

much progress today. the skin has been mounted, rim finished, tailpiece cut, nut slotted, etc. i put it together and it played well. this banjo is really, really responsive, and plays/sounds particularly nicely out over the scoop, though i left the tailpiece too far out and need to shorten the string that attaches it to the end pin, so that might move the sweet-playing spot back a bit.

i know need to disassemble and stain/finish the neck. i also need to make two bentwood laminations on the inside of the pot - one to go over the dowel where it enters, and one where it sits with the end pin. additionally, i need to cut a slot through the dowel for the wedge of ebony that will help tighten and secure the fit of the neck. all finish work should be done by mid week. once again, i sort of wish i could afford to keep this banjo. alas...

the flash on these photos really tends to darken the pot and, in general, exagerate contrasts. but it gives an idea of where the build is at.

(as always, click to see the full-sized image.)