I have read in a few places on the internet about using Neatsfoot oil on the reeds. Has something to do with moisture or no moisture.
Do you put that on the reeds after the reed is built or do you put it on on the slip before using it?
What is the main idea around using Neatsfoot oil?
Any other pertinent things about Neatsfoot oil would nice? Positive or negative!!
Johnnie
Joe Kennedy spoke me about carefully applying oil on reed surface. Only a little bit to stabilize the moisture gain/loss process.
Some reedmakers feel it has an adverse affect on the tone.
Tim Britton uses lacquer on some of his reeds and Andreas Rogge use PEG on some of his
However, on cane it seems to act entirely different, w/very little to almost non- noticeable affect. Tim reported to have played his lacquer covered reed in 10% humidity w/ no issues.
Where I live, no treatment is necessary, and I don’t ever play in dry areas, so…
***(I once used lacquer on wood. FORGET that idea. Pure shite, and unnecessary venture, really. To my mind, wooden (chanter) reeds are only for survival in v. dry situations. I like wood for the reg reeds for really any climate, but again…would never consider treating wood).
I have used neatsfoot oil on only one or two reeds - and ONLY in the dead of winter here in Canada. But there are indeed pros and cons for using it.
On the down side it can make your reed a bit sticky so that it gets dusty on the inside. You then have to clean it with a piece of paper. It can also soak into the binding of the reed making the wrap loose.
On the plus side it certainly has allowed me to get through gigging during the sub-zero, very dry winter months! It that sense it was worth it to me.
So my advice is to use it if you need it…but do it for your spare reed.
Hope that helps,
Paul
Yes Paul..
I am Canada too.. Beamsville actually near Niagara..
I have gone through a new read just from the humidity changes here in my mobile home.. The lips were all warped etc.. became no good after fiddlin with it.. lol I guess fiddlin should be left to fiddles’ ; - )
I was thinking of dipping the reed I have now in the neatsfoot but not sure if thats a good idea or not.. But maybe should wait and maybe soak the slips in the stuff when I go to make a couple which will be shortly.. Will be a great adventure if nothing else.. I have everything collected now for making reeds and will be giving it a go soon. Wish me luck.
Dag Gum it, Trying to play this monster is enough of an adventure , like I really need another one , huh.. Well I spoz its ok tho the two go together don’t they.. One with out the other just won’t work..
Thanks
Johnnie