How to Space Holes in a Wooden Flute

There are many different types of wooden flutes; each has its own character. These wooden flutes may or may not have keys. Some people build their own custom wooden flutes. They are easy and fun to make. The flute consists of the head, the barrel and 2 joints that make up the flutes body. The top-joint has 3 finger-holes and the bottom-joint has the lower 3 finger-holes.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Figure out the spacing of the holes first. Your fingers should fit comfortably over each hole.

2. Draw them on your flute before making any cuts and try placing your fingers over the drawn holes to see if the fit works for you. You do not want to struggle to reach any of the holes.

3. Drill the holes small first in the approximate place that you want them keeping in mind that the size of the hole will affect the sound and tuning.

4. Tune your flute by enlarging each hole from the bottom. The larger the hole the higher the note will go.

5. Work your way up to the highest hole. You can tune this by ear or you can use a tuner or an electronic tuner.

6. Test your flute for sound by taking the wood out of the bore of the flute to get each of the holes up to the final pitch and enlarge the holes further if you feel it's necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not make the holes too big initially so you have room for tuning.