|
|
How do you create your instruments? Each component is first drawn in 3D-CAD before being printed (or lasercut) |
How do you make the bellows?
The bellows are hand-made in the traditional way from leather by master-craftsman Mark Adey-Lloyd. |
(However, the jig that the bellows are formed on is entirely 3D-printed.) |
How do you create the button mechanism?
The levers are printed using carbon-fibre infused PLA (and are very strong). The buttons are stainless-steel cap-ends (typically used for jewellery). And the bushes are Teflon (which is a low-friction material). Consequently, the button action is smooth, quiet and very fast. The pads are self-levelling thanks to a ball-joint between the pads and levers (meaning that general leakage is very low indeed.) |
What material do you use? Is it enviromentally friendly?
Polylactic acid, also known as PLA, is the main material used in my concertinas. PLA is derived from renewable, organic sources such as corn-starch or sugar-cane, which means that this material is fully sustainable. Also, PLA may be easily and efficiently recycled, and is also bio-degradble. Consequently, PLA is often referred to as an 'eco-plastic'. |
I would like to order an instrument. How long will it take?
It takes around 3 months for the reeds to arrive once they have been ordered. Once I have the reeds, the CAD drawing takes a week, and the printing, assembly and tuning typically takes another ten days after that. International delivery takes between 3 or 4 days. |
Who tunes the instruments once you have built them?
I tune all my own instruments. In fact, I have spent the last 10 years tuning accordions professionally, having learned initially with Claudio Beltrami, a respected accordion-builder based in Stradella (Italy). |
Do your concertinas come with a case?
Yes, each concertina comes with it's own custom-fitted canvas case with re-inforced sides and shoulder strap. |
Where are you based?
In December 2021, I moved house to Bristol (UK), and set up a new workshop here, complete with a 'print farm'. |