Functioning flute headjoint

thingiverse

I designed this based on measurements averaged from several flute headjoints and info online. Naturally doesn't sound as good, and is difficult to play in the upper register, but does have an interesting, "woody" tone compared to a traditional metal headjoint. Prints in 3-5 hours and needs pretty minimal post-processing to play. Should be scaled correctly for most flutes, but may need either a touch of sanding or a strip of tape to shim it, depending on the fit with your instrument. --- Printing --- A large raft is an absolute must, supports strongly recommended. Infill does not need to be high, but higher infill might make the overall flute's weight better balanced. Printed in about 3.5 hours at 0.28 layer height and 20% infill on a CE3. I had slightly better luck with the more flexible silk PLA, but should be compatible with virtually any material if your settings are dialed in right. --- Assembly --- Break off supports and raft. Sand or shim end of headjoint with tape until it fits snugly in your flute. Insert the "cork" partially into the mouthpiece side - play, and adjust until in tune Mark the distance the "cork" is inserted. Remove, and then glue, epoxy, or tape in place until airtight. For a better sound, optionally clean up the embouchure hole with epoxy resin or filler, and sand down, to remove print lines.