Customer Reviews
Hello, from Japan. This is my second DIY dulcimer. The kit contained pretty beautiful wood material, such as a dead straight finger board, beautiful book matched and figured cherry top. I modified head shape, added abalon fret markers, 1.5 fret, kerfing, back brace and gecko shaped sound holes. Finished with Watoco oil narural twice and polished with bees wax. Speaking modestly, this is a beautiful dulcimer kit and beyond the price.
This kit has everything you need to make a nice teardrop dulcimer except supplies like glue, sandpaper and finishing products. I took my time and made it over the course of a week, but it could be done quicker. The instruction sheets could be improved, so they should be read thoroughly before you start, with common sense applied, and you can call for clarifications if needed, as I did. It comes with all the parts you need, but of course the end product depends on your skills and patience. I did enjoy building it. I think anyone would benefit from the experience.
Just finished Step 7 a few minutes ago. Kit builds easily and parts fit well.
I bought the kit for my Granddaughter, She likes woodworking and music so it was a special project. The kit was good and we did get it done. It turned out fine and she really enjoyed putting it together. The only negative I have is the instructions. The were not easy to follow and not complete. I think the instructions could have been more detailed and improved. A video would really be nice. The gluing was the hardest part. I don't think we put enough glue on the sides. the kit also could use a template for the sizing of the project.
Where to even begin? It’s probably safe to say I’m a level below “amateur” woodworker, so this kit offered an exciting challenge. I was worried about the quality of the sound hole appearance if I cut them, so I contacted the Folkcraft team and Richard setup to have my design laser-cut on the sound board! I also wanted a larger scale fret board (I have long thing fingers). These options were a minimal cost added to the price, and again Richard for the win! The wood is very high quality. All the pieces are cut with precision, and the instructions are really easy to follow. The only even remotely non-extraordinary thing I’d say if that I would liked to have had the option for the California size dulcimer and maybe a Galax back. This kit, while robust, requires patience to achieve great results. The old adage “measure twice, cut once” is certainly applicable. Cannot praise the kit and the Folkcraft team enough!!!!!!
