Hairpin Kalimba
A kalimba is a type of ideophone that has been played in Sub-Saharan Africa for hundreds of years. There are many indigenous names for this instrument sometimes called a thumb piano or finger harp in English. Kalimba is a popular South African name. They can be made from a variety of resources. This model uses wood and metal, including hairpins as the tongues, or the part that you pluck with your thumbs.
Please note that this model has a fairly high level of construction detail. Instructions for an easy model immediately follows.
Supplies you will need
Body: 6in. piece of 1in. X 5in. lumber. Pine works great.
Bridge: 4in. piece of 3/8in. dowel
4in. piece of 1 1/8in. lattice or paint stick
4in. piece of 1/8in. square dowel
2 8/32 machine screws with wing nuts
3 extra long hairpins
sandpaper
wood glue
paint or stain (optional)
Tools you will need
saw, vice, ruler, pliers, wire cutters, drill with 11/64 bit,
wood burner (optional)
Please note: Consider making your kalimba with a group of 5 – 6 friends. It will be more economical since many of the supplies listed come in large lengths and quantities.
