Not long ago I found myself in need of a tunable Bodhran. Like most beginners, I was not satisfied with the tourist grade drum that was given to me so I started looking to upgrade. As I started to shop around I realized I might be able to construct one for myself. With some knowledge of laminating wood and metal work, I decided to give it a try. After much trial and error I finally arrived at the methods I use today. While construction techniques are still evolving, I have settled into a method that is tested, tried, and true!
Specs
Construction: I now use birch plywoods in combination with modern polyurethane glues. This adds a great deal of strength to the drum shell. Each shell is handcrafted one at a time.
Shells: Shells are typically 15" and 14" in diameter, but I can make others as needed. The depth can be customized to the player's preference. The shells themselves are crafted to one quarter to three eighth inch finished thickness. The tuning ring is now placed within the drum shell. This provides for a clean drum shell interior.
Skins: I primarily use goat skins in various thicknesses. I also have access to calf skins in all thicknesses. Most of the skins I install on my handmade shells are parchment styled skins. They are medium to heavy in weight, opaque and very smooth to the touch. All my skins undergo a second process to soften them. This process reduces play-in time, resulting in a bodhran that is very tonal and user-friendly right out the case!
Tuning ring: Laminated birch to a finished thickness of 3/8" to 1/2". The tuning ring is beveled to promote the free vibration of the skin.
Tuners: All drums have six tuning points milled from Delrin, a space age plastic with characteristics similar to brass. Hand tuning is available.
Finishes: All drums are finished to the player's specifications. Veneers, stains, paint, you name it! See the photos for examples.
Cases: Custom-made soft, heavily padded cases are available for deeper drums (6" or more). These cases are the best that I have seen traveling around the net, and feature a large pocket and adjustable shoulder strap.
New Offering! I am now offering an intermediate drum in 15” diameter in any depth. This drum is made from birch with a birch tuning ring, six tuning blocks and a treated skin, in natural or black finish. I have also included a comfort edge and a custom case for the price of $250 plus S/H. See the pictures in the gallery. Sound sample coming soon!
Ordering
Single skin PRO DRUMS are $400 plus S/H.
Double skin PRO DRUMS are $450 plus S/H.
Intermediate drums are $250 plus S/H.
Cases are $75, shipping included.
