Gourd Banjo

If it's not a guitar or a bass guitar discussion, and it's got strings, put it here.
Post Reply
phil chestnut
Posts: 8
Joined: Sat Mar 24, 2012 1:05 am
Location: Indiana

Gourd Banjo

Post by phil chestnut »

I have been meaning to build a Gourd Banjo. I have some information, But with all that I have found and read. I feel like I am missing some thing. one thing that comes to mind is the neck. I don't think I have ever found what the VLS should be. Can anyone help me find more information or maybe a set of planes.
User avatar
Jon Whitney
Posts: 170
Joined: Fri Jan 20, 2012 1:04 am

Re: Gourd Banjo

Post by Jon Whitney »

VLS??? Do you mean VSL - Vibrating String Length? If so, you can choose any length you want but the "standard" for banjos is around 26 3/16". Minstrel banjos historically tended to be a little longer, and nowadays a lot of builders are building them shorter, but there are no rules except for "whatever works".

Also, have you tried banjohangout.org? There are lots of gourd builders there.
phil chestnut
Posts: 8
Joined: Sat Mar 24, 2012 1:05 am
Location: Indiana

Re: Gourd Banjo

Post by phil chestnut »

Oops sorry about, I should have triple checked my spelling :oops: Yes I meant VSL. Thanks Jon for the help.
Post Reply

Return to “Other Stringed Instruments”