The Oboe BBoard

The Oboe BBoard The C4 standard

New Topic | Go to Top | Go to Topic | Search | Help/Rules | Smileys/Notes | Log In

Re: Measuring gouge cane

Author: hautbois
Date: 2009-08-29 15:16

Actually, it should not matter whether the measurement of the cane is dry or wet or in humid circumstances or not, as long as you always measure it in the same conditions (always dry or always right after gauging, e.g.). Once you find a gouge thickness you like, the number is irrelevant except to the extent that it is identical to the number you found worked under the same environment. It is also imiportant that you use the same pressure on the cane with the cllipers when measuring. I tightened the measuring instrument just to the point that the cane would not slip out of its grasp with the force of gravity. It is easy to press too hard, especially into wet cane, and create inconsistencies in measurement.
Before you throw out all that cane which does not seem to conform to a certain set of parameters, segregate out some variant cane and label it's characteristics (e.g. color and markings, lack of smootheness of the scrapings, visible irregularities on the bark surface, visiblly thick fibrovascular bundles). When you have time, try some reeds on it. (Though don't bother with curved, warped, etc., cane under any circumstances). I found after years of gouging that the cane which gouged in perfect smooth curlicues did not necessarily give me exactly what I wanted; just a touch of what I call 'stringiness' helped me get a little more 'zip' in the sound with my oboe and style of reed making, and some brown markings on a slightly golden bark also tended to produce good results. I also especially treasured cane with purple markings. Your experience might be different; but try all the options.
Elizabeth

Reply To Message | Avail. Forums | Flat View

Newer Topic | Older Topic

Topics