Hello all,
I am attempting to make some synthetic regulator reeds using the tutorial by Bruce Childress in the latest Pipers’ Review. Bruce doesn’t specify whether he shapes the staples. Does anyone know if I need to do this for the regulator reeds? If so, any tips on how I can do this without a mandrel? I have one for a chanter reed but it is too wide for the narrower tubing used for the tenor and bari reeds. Thanks!
-Patrick
i’ve had success with gently tapping the empty tubing into shape with a hammer. not exactly precise, but it seems to work if you’re careful. otherwise, you could make a custom mandrel from drill stock, or maybe even an old drill bit (the back end.)
You’ll need to use a mandrel set up for flat reeds and unless you roll your own staples, you can use 5/32 hobby tubing.
I’ve already got the 5/32 tubing and have cut it down to size. Anyone got an extra small mandrel? Otherwise, I’ll go the serendipity route and start whacking on them with a hammer.
You can make a mandrel with an 1/8" welding rod or drill rod in a few minutes. An ice pick might be used to keep from overly smashing the back of the taper using a hammer. Pliers might be better than a hammer. A mandrel makes the job easier and more accurate.
you could probably use a nail in the tube to avoid crushing it in a pinch. just harvested some “arundo dasani” to try out…
I have a mandrel you may borrow, PM me redarding getting it into your hands. I advise following Ted’s suggestion.