Reed Making
Introduction

Pipe Chanter Reeds

  1. What you require
  2. Shaping the Chanter Reed
  3. Cane Gouge
  4. Reed Blade Former
  5. Reed Staple Cutter
  6. Chanter Reed Staple Roller
  7. Chanter Reed Staple Former
  8. Chanter Reed Assembly Jig

Drone Reeds

  1. What you require
  2. Making the Drone Reed
  3. Diagram Index
  4. Drone Reed Jig

Cane Gouge
Purpose: for shaping reed blades

  1. The gouges shown are made out of old metal files. The metal is very hard and reduces the necessity for frequent sharpening.
  2. Whatever method of gouging is used, it is essential that the cane is properly secured. Any deviation in the angle of cut will produce an improper reed blade. The surplus material should be removed in a series of strokes along the entire length of the prepared cane. Attempting to take too much at one time may split the cane or leave tool chatter marks.
  3. An alternate to the gouge is to use old coping planes. A sketch is shown for the benefit of those unfamiliar with this type of plane often found in antique stores.
  4. A number of reed makers advocate the use of a grinding wheel held along the direction of the cane and grinding the required radius. Of course, the wheel would have to be shaped and dressed in the proper manner to do a good job. Also, there should be some form of dust collection apparatus. The dust created by this method is horrendous and may be harmful to your health unless precautions are taken.