Features
An elegant bellows for a simple price
Most of my bellows are made with 1/2" thick boards cut in a traditional pattern, wrapped in black garment grade leather (other colours and wood finishes available by request). I can also make a routed style bellows in exotic hardwoods at extra cost. The boards measure roughly 10.5" long and 5.5" wide.
-
The smooth-side-out thick double layer genuine leather gusset is fitted tightly by industrial leather adhesive and cleverly hidden upholstery tacks for a trim, no fuss look, or decorative trim and polished nails for classic appeal. The stout gusset opens to about 11 inches. A 2/3 size is also available for Northumbrian and Scottish smallpipes. (pictures forthcoming) I am able to use Brass OR Nickel trim by request!
-
Optional removable sheepskin padding or integral upholstered leather padding on either or both sides is available.
-
All holes are lined to prevent warping. The ivory coloured plastic air inlet sports a gaping 3/4" opening, and features a nearly silent leather valve. The inlet valve has been moved closer to the hinge, to keep it out from under your arm! The outlet fitting can be mounted directly to the hose, granting an extra level of adjustablilty. In all cases it is set at a proper 45° angle and comes with a removable 1/2" diameter black rubber tubing. The tubing is intentionally left long enough for you to trim to fit your instrument/body. This "removable" hose design saves lots of space in your case!
-
The new optional "quick release" adjustable arm strap is of sturdy (very thick) leather and will fit a wide array of arm sizes. The now full leather body straps are cut to length to fit YOU! Extra long belts can be made by request- no shame in it!
-
My bellows are available with/without padding, with/without quick release armstraps and/or without any belts at all- ready for you to finish to you liking. Though I think you'll find the current configuration quite comfortable, I'm always open to your ideas!
-
The only catch may be what kind of hose fitting your blowpipe requires, please take a look:
1: Female hose (if your blowpipe looks like a mini mouthpiece, the hose simply slips over the blowpipe) This is what I make as standard, and is pictured above.
2: Male hose (this has a hemped fitting at the end to be inserted into the blowpipe) Some uilleann pipes require this fitting, and I can make them by request, I just need to know the length needed and inside diameter of the blowpipe.
3: Male hose w/ valve (I can make these by request, if all your have is a blowpipe stock and no blowpipe valve. this is like the male hose but with a silicone valve installed.
-
If you need a special connector, just let me know, I'd be glad to try to accomodate your set.
-
-
Stay tuned for continual improvements on this design!
