Introduction

In all my years working with wood I've found that some of the most satisfying projects have been the making of musical instruments. I have built everything from simple board zithers to lap and hammered dulcimers to wooden flutes. Back in our art fair days the flutes were one of the most popular things we sold. Some of the flutes were pretty basic; a hardwood tube with holes drilled in strategic locations. On some I carved a raised lip plate and others I carved the closed end; bird, cat, human face, among other designs.

I really did enjoy both making the flutes and (there seems to be a pattern here) making the tools and jigs to make them more efficiently and of better quality. The two tools I made that were most helpful were a hand-powered boring machine and my trusty treadle lathe. I have already written about the lathe in "Make Your Own Treadle Lathe" which is available as an eBook at most on-line book retailers and as a paperback at Amazon and Createspace. Now I'd like to share with you my flute-making experiences: the materials, tools, jigs and the building process.

Just so we are on the same page, these flutes are 'simple flutes'. That is, cross-blown, tubular wind instruments with the holes covered by your fingers - as opposed to fancy levers and pads. Also, the instruments I'm describing here are what I call 'wander in the woods' flutes; designed to be played solo or possibly with other folk instruments, not in an orchestral setting.

I hope that you enjoy making and playing your new wooden flute!