I’m considering trying to make a banjo out of Koa. This means bending 1/4″ thick strips into a 11″ diameter. I know I’m going to have to steam it first, but once steamed, will it let me bend it into an 11″ diameter? Are there tricks anyone would like to share?
Edited 3/27/2008 8:03 am ET by Quickstep
Replies
Anybody? You're killing me here!!!!! :)
It appears you have the opportunity to break new ground, as it were.
Let us know how it goes, but my untuition is that it will be difficult(ish).
Use a Koa Bonstrictor.
2FNF
I have not bent any koa, but I have done some steam bending. I have been using some koa lately and I do think it should bend fine.
If you have not done any steam bending before, here is a link to a free book. Get it and read and follow ALL of the instructions, and you should do fine.
Getting a few suggestions on these forums is not enough. We can answer your questions, but when you don't know the questions that you need to ask yet requires someone wanting to offer you good advice to write a book. Why not just start with a book. I think they may even have a video now if that suites you better.
I would bet though that at 1/4" that it could be bent to < 2" R.
Keith, Did you forget the link?
yes, sorry
http://www.leevalley.com/wood/page.aspx?c=1&p=31161&cat=1,46096,46123&ap=1
Quickstep - just a thought - check the musical instrument makers forum, mimf.com
Lots of Koa bent for guitar bodies.
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