Make a Whistle Using Bamboo



It is easy to make a bamboo whistle, using a few simple tools. A whistle made from bamboo will last a long time and if you practice a lot, you may end up playing some fantastic tunes. Bamboo whistles can be for fun, or they can have a more practical use, such as taking on a long walk when you might want to alert your friends where you are. Since this whistle is lightweight, it is very easy to carry.

Steps

  1. Obtain two pieces of bamboo, one narrower in diameter than the other, and hollow both out if necessary.
  2. Cut the larger piece to about 150 mm (5-6 in) long. The smaller and narrower the piece of bamboo, the higher the pitch.
  3. Choose the smoother and straighter end for the mouthpiece. Make a semicircular cut about 15 mm from this end, as shown.
  4. Make another mark 10 to 15 mm lower from the mouthpiece cut.
    • Cut another smaller piece of bamboo. Make it the same length as the cut that you made to the top end of the whistle.
    • Flatten one side by splitting a piece off. This piece should not reach the centre and it should be about 1 mm thick.
    • Block up any holes in this piece of bamboo with glue. Place it inside the top of the whistle. Again, use glue if needed to ensure that the sides of the mouthpiece align properly, with the cut flat-side of the whistle facing up. Make sure not to glue the flat side!
  5. Use the other short segment that you cut from the smaller piece to plug the other end of the flute. Glue it in if necessary.
  6. Test your whistle. Wait for the glue to dry. Check whether it works or not. If it doesn't, try one of the tips below.
  7. Decorate your new whistle by carving it, painting it or gluing on natural items such as shells or feathers.

Tips

  • Don't blow too hard or too softly. Experiment to get the best sound.
  • If you want to make the whistle using only "natural" techniques, try replacing the glue with tree sap or blocking the holes with splinters of bamboo.
  • If you have problems with the sound or your whistle is not working properly, here are some ideas to "troubleshoot" it:

    • Make the notch longer, so that the semicircular hole is more elongated.
    • Check that all holes other than the notch and mouthpiece are completely blocked up.
  • File:Breakfast in bed.jpg
    Can a panda whistle with bamboo?
    Do your work on a flat surface.

Warnings

  • Additionally, you might want to make sure to peel off the outer 'skins' off the bamboo. Insects might get underneath them! A mouthful of leaf lice is not a nice way to start a concert.
  • Take frequent breaths while playing; blowing too hard or for too long may make you feel dizzy.
  • Bamboo leaves can be very sharp, and can cause cuts similar to paper cuts. Be careful when handling bamboo, and especially when cutting it.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 pieces of bamboo of differing thicknesses
  • Knife and/or saw
  • Glue

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