The book covers:  – Tools  – The process  – Stock selection  – Boring and roughing the blank  – Turning the tube  – Marking and drilling the finger holes  – Tuning and finishing the flute  – Playing your first tune  – Fingering chart  – Tunes to get you started Each step is illustrated and the text is geared toward folks who have no prior experience making musical instruments. Additional information on how you might make multiple flutes is also provided. In the examples described in this guide I turn a piece of firewood into a nice looking and sounding wooden flute. You can do it too!

Notes & Updates:

I have had some feedback from folks using this book to guide them in making their first wooden flute. Below are a few notes related to the flute making process:

- Lathe required?  While a wood turning lathe will simplify the flute making process it is possible to shape the outside of the flute tube with hand tools. I'd recommend using a flat-soled spokeshave. The trick is to hold the tube securely without crushing it in your vise. A pair of shop-made v-shaped vice jaws would be a good idea.

- Wood moisture: Boring into the end grain of a piece of wood is often difficult. The ideal wood is a close-grained hardwood like cherry. End boring is easier if the wood is green as opposed to air or especially kiln dried. Wood from a recently felled tree is easiest to bore. I often use a piece of firewood that has not had a chance to dry much. Next best is wood that has been air dried.

- Wood sources: My best recommendation is to be alert for green wood opportunities like a tree falling in your yard or neighborhood. Arborists and tree services might have just what you are looking for