MBIRA build
MAKING THE PARTS
0.
Materials
1/4" or 3/8" thick plywood
1/4" or 1/8" electricians fish tape or spring steel
1/2" diameter wooden dowel
1/4" diameter wooden dowel
3/16" diameter metal rod
1/4" drill bit
medium-grade sandpaper
Saw
Ruler
Pencil
Metal File or Belt Sander
Vice-grip or Heavy Duty Pliers
2.
Pressure bar
Using a 1/2" diameter wooden dowel, cut to measure 4 1/4". Sand flat at bottom. Measure center and drill hole with a 1/4" bit. From each end of bar, measure in 3/8" and drill holes with a 1/4" bit (one hole on each end). Sand bar with medium-grade sandpaper. (see figure #3 in photo)
4.
Nut
Using a 1/4" diameter wooden dowel, cut to measure 4 1/4". Sand flat at bottom. Sand nut with medium-grade sandpaper. (see figure #2 in photo)
1.
Keys
You can make keys from 1/4" or 1/8" electricians fish tape or spring steel. Cut tape or steel 1/16" to 3/32" longer than the lengths listed on the Mbira Diagram. Fish tape is brittle, so you can cut to size by clamping it in a vise or heavy duty pliers and bending it back and forth until it snaps. Spring steel should be cut with a hacksaw. File or belt sand the edges smooth. (see figures #5 and #6 in photo)
3.
Soundboard
Using 1/4" or 3/8" thick plywood, cut to measure 5" x 7". Measure center at top of soundboard, then measure down 11/2" and mark. Center the pressure bar on 11/2" mark and use it as a guide to mark holes for drilling. Drill the three holes with a 1/4" bit. Sand all sides of soundboard with medium-grade sandpaper. (see figure #1 in photo)
5.
Bridge
Using a 3/16" diameter metal rod, cut to measure 4 1/4". (see figure #4 in photo)
mbira (parts for assembly)
2.
1.
4.
5.
6.
3.
Completed Construction Parts
1. Soundboard with three holes
2. Wooden Nut
3. Pressure Bar with three holes
4. Metal Bridge
5. Four left keys
6. Four right keys
Additional Parts for Build
Sandpaper
Three Machine Bolts
Three Tee-Nuts
Plywood Block
(see The Build page)
© 2014 SHIPS OF THE SEA MARITIME MUSEUM, Savannah, Ga
