Examples of Soundholes Designs
The above video features just a few of the many designs I have installed in my hammered dulcimers. You can also enjoy the playing of hammered dulcimer player Steve Schneider and guitarist Paul Oorts. Thanks for watching.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Each hammered dulcimer I build has a different soundhole design whether it is one of my designs or one you help create. I develop my designs by cutting them out of paper and than transferring the design to curly or birdseye veneer for installation into the soundhole. They are generally abstract in nature. Each image is surrounded by a wooden rim which usually matches the wood binding or the pin panel. I can also work with you to create a more personal design.
I have built over 1500 hammered dulcimers and each Custom instrument has either one of my soundhole designs (like the ones above) or an individualized custom design. (like the ones below). Most of the designs below I would not use again as they were developed in colaboration with the purchaser and as a result are unique to their instrument.

Designing Your Own

I encourage individuals considering a custom design to find something that is unique and personal. It could be your own drawing or an image you adapt. Search within Google Images or Picsearch. to located possible source material. You need to think about things that would look good in silhouette. Be aware that all elements of your design must be either supported by other parts of the image or by contact with the rim.

All designs are cut by me personally using a scroll saw. Laser cutting can be an option if the design is more detailed than I'm capable of cutting or needs engraving. If you choose to develop a custom design of your own it will add at minimum $75 to the cost of the instrument.
A few examples of Custom Soundhole Designs

Design by Sam Goodall