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Topic: Makeshift dobro capo? |
Thomas de Bourbon
From:
Los Angeles, California, USA
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Posted 15 May 2024 4:16 pm |
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| Has anyone built a makeshift dobro capo? I need one for a session soon and would prefer not to buy one, and it doesn't seem to difficult to build one. Wanted to see if anyone has pics of something they've made that I could try to replicate. Thanks! |
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Paul Seager
From:
Augsburg, Germany
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Posted 15 May 2024 8:43 pm
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I've tried using a pencil with varying results. I just shoved it under the strings. It mutes the open strings a little.
Patrick Jackson, on this forum, wrote that he used the plastic handles of measuring cups for a while! I toyed with the idea of flattening a metal bolt but worried about scratching the fretboard.
I'll add that I have been trying to play without using a capo. I don't play that much so it's not a major issue for me yet!
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\paul
Bayern Hawaiians: https://www.youtube.com/@diebayernhawaiians3062
Other stuff: https://www.youtube.com/@paulseager3796/videos |
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Mike A Holland
From:
United Kingdom
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Posted 16 May 2024 12:59 am
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Here are the details of a simple Dobro Capo I made a few years back. Simple to make and it does work. I dont use a capo very much but I have this parked just above the nut on my guitar so I can grab it if I need it. Here is a link to a YouTube video I made about the capo. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b56zmOQK-GY&t=26s |
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D Schubert
From:
Columbia, MO, USA
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Posted 16 May 2024 12:19 pm
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Depending on string height, you can use a screwdriver or an extension rod from a ratchet set.
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GFI Expo S-10PE, Sho-Bud 6139, Fender 2x8 Stringmaster, Supro consoles, Dobro. And more. |
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Patrick Jackson
From:
Georgia, USA
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Posted 17 May 2024 5:12 am
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| Paul Seager wrote: |
| Patrick Jackson, on this forum, wrote that he used the plastic handles of measuring cups for a while! |
Actually the metal handle from a cheap plastic measuring cup. The handle will break off pretty easily, but here's a picture with the cup still attached to the handle.
Mike's design is much nicer and I would try it out if I had the woodworking skills. |
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Michael Breid
From:
Eureka Springs, Arkansas, USA
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Posted 24 May 2024 4:07 pm Makeshift capo for dobro
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Look on YouTube under "Simple, but effective dobro capo". They're easy to make.
I used a piece of solid brass rod (3/16") instead of the suggested bone inlay the strings press on. I made mine from a piece of ebony and brass rod, but any hardwood, maple, walnut, cherry, would work. I put a small screw eye in the end of mine and attached a loop of fly line. I hang it over one of the keys to keep it handy. A groove at the top and some epoxy glue will hold the brass rod securely. It's a trial and error thing. Mine was too thick so it sharped the strings a bit. I sanded the bottom and with an X-acto hobby saw, and a small hobby file I fashioned a small groove to fit over the length of the fret. It now works fine. Good luck. |
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