The Minty Kalimba

Step 4 Making the Key Vice

The vice is the part of the Kalimba that connects the keys to the resonating box (the tin). The way it is constructed allows for unobstructed vibration of the keys and thus SOUND.

Step 1:

Using a hacksaw or coldsaw, cut two 1 3/4" lengths of the 1/8" round bar.

Step 2:

Now, cut a 1 3/4" length of the 3/8" brass tube.

Step 3:

Place your cut 3/8" tube in a vice or clamp it down some other way. It's time to drill the two holes in the tube for the machine screws. Drill straight down through the tube. The middle of both holes should be exactly 1/2" away from each end of the tube. This allows for even spacing of the keys (two in between the screws and two on the outside of the screws). Make sure the drill bit you use is a little bit wider than the machine screws you are using so that you don't have to force the screws through. This is all approximate so make sure that the holes you drill in the tube line up with the holes you drilled in the lid of the tin.