2 String Diddley Bow (Electric Optional)

thingiverse

The files included are for two versions of the 2 String "Cigar Box" style (electric optional) Diddley Bow: one with frets and the other with a captive slide, which is my own concept. Both instruments have necks made from 1-inch wooden dowels that measure 31.0 inches in length for the fret version and can be any length for the slide version, which is shown at 28.5 inches. The fret version has a fixed distance of 25.5 inches from the center of the bridge to the center of the nut to ensure correct tuning. The captive slide version allows for any length dowel but still maintains the same mounting system with 2.50 inches protruding from the cap end of the front box. Three different front boxes are provided, and while any will work, the larger central hole may allow for less pick scraping but also blocks sound. This can be addressed by staining the dowel black using a Sharpie permanent marker. The decorative score lines on the dowel were originally designed to prevent warping. Two separate nut/tuning peg headstocks are included: one for the fret version and one for the slide version, both of which are designed for right-hand Stratocaster tuning pegs. If you have left-hand Stratocaster tuning pegs, you will need to mirror the part before printing. The bridge height varies between versions, with 0.325 inches for the fret version and 0.250 inches for the slide version, allowing for adjustments if needed. All parts are attached using #6 x 3/4 L (M3.5 x 20mm) flat head wood screws except for the bridge, which is secured with #6 x 1/2 L (M3.5 x 12mm) flat head wood screws. To enhance structural integrity, consider mounting 1/8 inch diameter pop-rivets (minus the nail) in the cap holes before inserting the strings. The Slide is installed with its lip facing towards the box. To minimize scraping sounds when sliding it, line the inner surface of the slide. The photo shows one lined with glued denim fabric, but duct tape can also be used and offers better results due to ease of installation. To determine the slide fret positions, first calculate the distance from the center of the bridge to the center of the nut using an online calculator, then mark the dowel accordingly. Converting a Diddley Bow into an electric instrument is straightforward. The minimum requirement is a piezo crystal connected to a 1/4 inch phone jack. You can purchase a piezo from Amazon or repurpose one from a dismembered buzzer (as shown). There are knock-out plugs for mounting the jack and potentiometers, along with an adapter for small shaft potentiometers. Refer to the schematic diagrams for wiring instructions. Once complete, secure the piezo disk to the inside of the box using duct tape. The Diddley Bow can be set up in any way you prefer, but it is typically played with electric guitar strings (A & D) tuned to open G & open D. If acoustic nylon strings are used, adjustments may need to be made to the notches on the bridge and nut.