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Broomstick Cigar Box Guitar. How to Make it.

If you’re a music enthusiast who loves creating and playing instruments, then you might want to try building a broomstick cigar box guitar. This unique and fascinating musical instrument has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century when African Americans created them as a means of musical expression. With just a few tools and materials, you can easily build your own broomstick cigar box guitar and enjoy making music that’s both soulful and unique.

Understanding the Broomstick Cigar Box Guitar

Before we dive into the building process, let’s take a closer look at what a broomstick cigar box guitar is and how it works.

What is a Broomstick Cigar Box Guitar?

A broomstick cigar box guitar is a simple stringed musical instrument that’s made from a cigar box, a broomstick, and a few other materials. It’s a type of “resonator guitar,” which means that it produces sound by vibrating the strings, which in turn causes a thin piece of wood (the “resonator”) to vibrate and amplify the sound.

History of the Broomstick Cigar Box Guitar

The history of the broomstick cigar box guitar dates back to the early 19th century when African Americans created them as a means of musical expression. At the time, they didn’t have access to expensive instruments, so they used whatever materials they could find to create their own. Cigar boxes were a popular choice, as were broomsticks and other scrap materials. Over time, these instruments became more refined, and today they’re still played by musicians around the world.

Building a Broomstick Cigar Box Guitar: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the building process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building your own broomstick cigar box guitar.

Materials You’ll Need

Before you start building, you’ll need to gather some materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Cigar box (preferably wooden)
  • Broomstick or wooden dowel
  • Tuning pegs
  • Guitar strings
  • Screw eyelets
  • Bridge
  • Nut
  • Wood glue
  • Screwdriver
  • Hand drill
  • Pliers
  • Wire cutters

Step 1: Prepare the Cigar Box

The first step in building a broomstick cigar box guitar is to prepare the cigar box. If your cigar box has a lid, remove it and set it aside. Then, using a screwdriver, remove any hinges or clasps that may be attached to the box.

Step 2: Install the Neck

Next, it’s time to install the neck. Take your broomstick or wooden dowel and measure it to fit the length of the cigar box. Then, drill a hole in the center of the cigar box, making sure it’s large enough for the broomstick to fit through.

Step 3: Install the Tuning Pegs

Once the neck is in place, it’s time to install the tuning pegs. These will allow you to tune your guitar to the desired pitch. To install the pegs, simply drill small holes into the head of the broomstick and insert them.

Step 4: Install the Strings

After the tuning pegs are in place, it’s time to install the strings. Start by threading the strings through the holes in the tuning pegs and then thread them through the screw eyelets on the tail end of the cigar box. Then, thread the strings over the bridge and through the nut at the top of the neck.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Finally, it’s time to add some finishing touches. You can add frets to the neck using thin pieces of wood or wire. You can also add a pickup to amplify the sound of your guitar. Once you’ve made all the necessary adjustments, you’re ready to play!

Tips for Building a Broomstick Cigar Box Guitar

Building a broomstick cigar box guitar can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of the process:

  • Choose a cigar box that’s made of wood, as it will produce a better sound.
  • Use high-quality strings to ensure a clear, crisp sound.
  • Be creative with your design. You can decorate your guitar with paint, stickers, or other embellishments.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different materials. You can use a variety of materials to make your guitar unique and personalized.

Benefits of Building Your Own Broomstick Cigar Box Guitar

Building your own broomstick cigar box guitar can have many benefits, including:

  • It’s a fun and engaging DIY project that can be done with minimal tools and materials.
  • It allows you to create a unique and personalized musical instrument that’s tailored to your preferences.
  • It’s a great way to learn more about how guitars work and to develop your musical skills.
  • It’s an affordable alternative to buying a professional-grade guitar.

Conclusion

A broomstick cigar box guitar is a simple yet fascinating musical instrument that’s steeped in history and culture. Building your own guitar is a fun and rewarding DIY project that can help you develop your musical skills and create a personalized instrument that’s tailored to your preferences. With just a few tools and materials, you can easily build your broomstick cigar box guitar and enjoy making soulful and unique music.

FAQs

  1. How long does it take to build a broomstick cigar box guitar?
  • Depending on your skill level, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
  1. What type of wood is best for a cigar box guitar?
  • A wooden cigar box is best, as it produces a better sound.
  1. Can I use nylon strings on a broomstick cigar box guitar?
  • Yes, nylon strings can be used, but they produce a different sound than metal strings.
  1. Do I need any special tools to build a broomstick cigar box guitar?
  • No, you can build a broomstick cigar box guitar with just a few basic tools like a screwdriver, drill, and pliers.
  1. Can I add a pickup to my broomstick cigar box guitar?
  • Yes, you can add a pickup to amplify the sound of your guitar.

UPDATE: I have recorded the demo where I use this broomstick guitar equipped with a DIY magnet pickup made from the spare transformer