For a school project on acoustics, we’d like to build whistles with our students; we’ve found a lot of recipes online, so the base is set. But we’re not sure if we can manage to make the fipples. So the question is: Is there a way to get platic fipples in bulk - two or three dozens, cheap ones, but sufficiently reliable? I’ve searched the web, but the only ones I find are too good (and thus, too expensive) for us. Any suggestions? I see that some people build whistles using Sweetone heads - did anyone try and order them directly?
If you’re planning on making the PVC ones that are discussed here and elsewhere, all you need is a dowel (wood) of the appropriate diameter. You can just cut off “chunks” for each fipple. You could also look at buying a delrin rod for the same purpose.
Egad… I just saw a site that sold fipples separate from bodies… Can’t remember for the life of me what site that was. A shame, too, because I seem to recall the chap had some other interesting bits I wouldn’t mind picking up… I do recall that it was a link I followed from either a post or a signature on here, but that’s about it!
Might not be the best for a school project, though… they were a bit pricey for such purposes… be cheaper just to buy a bunch of Feadogs or something.
I have a box of new Waltons C whistleheads that would be fine for making whistles in D, C and probably another key or two. I’ll be happy to send you as many as you need for free.
Actually, it wasn’t. I wasn’t even aware that The Whistle Shop sold fipples separately, and I’m browsing that site generally at least once a week… Guess I always just head straight for the whistle page!
Also, yes, Jerry is the man. You never cease to amaze me, Mr. Freeman.
that’s more than generous! I need 40 or more, but I can also work with only 20 (two people one whistle). If we can fix this somehow, I’ll be glad to make good for it somehow (it’s not too difficult to think of a way, really - I’m thinking about the Blackbird anyhow…). I’ll send a PM with the details as soon as you confirm availability…
M.
P.S. To all who commented: It’s pretty darn tough to convince other whistle smiths to part with parts otherwise (I tried, believe me) - Jerry’s offer is simply great!
PM sent.