Building A Bed Pan Guitar: A Creative Diy Project

how to build a bed pan guitar

Building a bed pan guitar is a fun and unique project for musicians and DIY enthusiasts alike. While the idea of a bed pan guitar is not new, with many guides and photos available online, creating your own version can be a rewarding experience. In this discussion, we will explore the process of building a bed pan guitar, from sourcing the materials to assembling the final product. We will also consider the unique sound and appearance of this unconventional instrument and the creative possibilities it offers. Whether you are an experienced musician or a beginner, building and playing a bed pan guitar is sure to be a memorable and entertaining endeavour.

Characteristics Values
Cost of bed pan $1.00 at a mission center
Cleaning Requires thorough cleaning before use
Sound Different from a cigar box guitar
Neck attachment Gluing, bolting, drilling, or sliding into the body

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Sourcing a bedpan

It's important to consider the shape of the bedpan you choose. If you want to avoid drilling and screwing, look for one with a shape that will allow the neck to slide in easily. The shape of the bedpan will also determine how you attach the neck and other components, such as pickups.

When sourcing a bedpan, it's also crucial to consider the material and condition of the bedpan. Make sure it is made of a durable material that can withstand the weight of the guitar components and the tension of the strings. Clean the bedpan thoroughly to remove any dirt or bacteria, especially if it is a second-hand item.

In terms of cost, bedpans can vary in price depending on the source and the quality. As mentioned, some mission centers may offer them for as little as $1.00, but prices may vary depending on your location and the availability of such items. It's worth checking multiple sources, both online and offline, to find the best option for your budget and specific needs.

Overall, finding the right bedpan for your guitar project may take some time and effort, but with a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you should be able to source a suitable bedpan for your unique bedpan guitar.

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Cleaning the bedpan

When building a bedpan guitar, it's important to start with a clean bedpan. Here is a detailed guide on how to clean a bedpan:

Empty the contents of the bedpan into the appropriate toilet or disposal system. This is an important step to prevent contamination of the cleaning area. It is recommended to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection, to ensure your safety during the process.

Rinse the bedpan with warm water to remove any remaining waste. This initial rinsing step helps in preparing the bedpan for a more thorough cleaning. Warm water is preferred as it can help dissolve and remove organic matter more effectively than cold water.

Apply a hospital-grade disinfectant cleaner to the bedpan. Disinfectants are crucial for killing harmful bacteria, viruses, and pathogens that can cause infections. Spray or pour the disinfectant onto all surfaces of the bedpan, ensuring complete coverage.

Use a cleaning brush or sponge to scrub all surfaces of the bedpan. Pay extra attention to corners and crevices, as these areas may harbor stubborn residues and biofilm. Scrubbing helps remove any remaining waste and ensures that the disinfectant is evenly distributed.

Rinse the bedpan with warm water again to remove any disinfectant residue and loosened debris. This step is important to prevent skin or mucous membrane irritation from chemical residues. Ensure that all cleaning agents are completely washed away.

Dry the bedpan using disposable towels or cloths. Proper drying prevents microorganism growth, as residual fluid can serve as a reservoir for their growth. After drying, inspect the bedpan for any remaining stains or residues. If necessary, repeat the cleaning process until the bedpan meets acceptable cleanliness standards.

Finally, dispose of any waste and PPE properly. Wash your hands thoroughly with liquid soap and warm water, dry them with a paper towel, and then dispose of the paper towel. Hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of infections.

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Attaching the neck

Another approach is to use a through-neck design, where the neck is not only attached to the front of the bed pan but also extends through a channel in the body. This provides additional support and can improve the overall strength of the guitar. However, creating a channel for the neck may require routing or chiselling, which can be more complex and time-consuming.

When attaching the neck, it is important to consider the placement of the bolts or screws. Ideally, you would want to have one bolt or screw at the front and another at the back of the bed pan, providing a firm hold for the neck. Reaching around the neck to screw or bolt it in place can be a bit tricky, so careful measurement and positioning are crucial.

To enhance the functionality of your bed pan guitar, you might also want to consider adding a pickup. This can be attached to the neck using a routed or chiselled channel, allowing you to amplify the sound of your guitar. Remember to take precise measurements and plan the placement of the pickup carefully before making any cuts or modifications to the neck.

Overall, attaching the neck to a bed pan guitar requires a combination of creativity and practical skills. By considering the available options and choosing the most suitable method for your build, you can ensure a sturdy and functional guitar that is truly one-of-a-kind.

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Stringing the guitar

Stringing a guitar involves a few steps, and there are a few ways to go about it. Firstly, decide on the type of strings you want to use. For a bed pan guitar, you might want to use nylon or steel strings, depending on the desired sound and your personal preference.

Once you have your strings, you'll need to measure them to the correct length. Place the string on the guitar, and measure from the bridge to the nut, adding about 2-3 inches to ensure you have enough to work with. You can cut the strings to size with wire cutters, but be sure to leave a little extra, as you can always cut more off, but you can't add it back on!

Now, you need to decide on your method of stringing. One way is to tie the strings to the guitar. You can do this by drilling small holes in the guitar body and then tying the strings securely. This method is simple and effective but may not be as easy to adjust as other methods. Another way is to use a stringing post, which is a small peg that you can wind the string around, similar to a violin. This method allows for easier adjustment of the string tension.

Finally, you'll need to thread the strings through the guitar. Start by feeding the string through the bridge and then up to the nut. You can use a piece of flexible wire to help guide the string through the holes if needed. Once the string is through, you can either tie it securely or wind it around the string post, depending on your chosen method. Repeat this process for each string, and you'll have a fully strung bed pan guitar!

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Testing the sound

Firstly, it is important to note that the sound of your bedpan guitar will differ from a traditional guitar or a cigar box guitar. The shape, materials, and construction of the bedpan guitar will all contribute to its unique sound. As you are testing the sound, keep in mind that you are assessing the quality of the tone, volume, and overall timbre of the instrument.

To begin testing, you will need to connect your bedpan guitar to an audio probe or an amplifier. If you are using an audio probe, refer to the steps outlined by Five Cats Pedals. They suggest connecting the audio probe to the output jack tip and placing it at different points on the board to hear the signal. This will help you identify any issues with the sound.

If you are using an amplifier, ensure that it is set up correctly and connected to your bedpan guitar. Start by strumming or plucking the strings of the guitar and adjust the volume to a comfortable level. Play a variety of notes and chords to get a sense of the guitar's overall sound.

Pay attention to the clarity and resonance of the notes. Are the notes sustaining for an appropriate length of time, or are they cutting off too quickly? Assess the balance of the sound across the frequency range. Is there too much emphasis on the high or low end? You can adjust the tone and EQ settings on your amplifier to see if this improves the sound.

Finally, consider the overall projection and volume of the bedpan guitar. Does it have enough volume to be heard clearly, or does it sound muted and quiet? Compare the sound to other guitars, either in person or by referencing online videos or recordings. This will give you a sense of how your bedpan guitar stacks up in terms of sound quality.

Remember, the sound of a bedpan guitar may be unique, but with the right adjustments and fine-tuning, you can achieve a pleasing and interesting tone.

Frequently asked questions

You can find bedpans at your local thrift store or online at Craigslist or the Memphis TN CL for a very low price.

Clean the bedpan thoroughly before starting your build.

You can glue or bolt the neck to the body of the bedpan. Drilling and screwing the neck to the body seems to be the most popular method.

A bedpan guitar sounds okay but has a different tone than a cigar box guitar.

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