Gourd Banjo

[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.

[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]

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