Questions about restoring an old wooden violin case
I bought an old wooden violin case to restore. I've already reupholstered the inside as well as sanded and stained the outer case. It has old brass pieces that look great, too- I also added some minor safety features like extra latches to make sure it stays shut. I found one major problem though, and I would like to hear of anything else you all can think of. The problem I am trying to solve is how to waterproof the case- meaning not the wood (adding polyurethane after a few more stainings)- but how to keep water from entering the case opening. Should I add a zipper? that would look a little weird, but at least keep the water out. would anyone happen to have any better ideas?
I understand I'm taking a risk by using this case, but honestly I don't get out much with my violin, and playing the music is just as important as using the creativity in other ways, too. I don't think I would be taking too much of a risk here, as I only travel outside to visit my luthier with my violin anyways.
any suggestions?
Replies (6)
perfect! a long term and short term solution! thanks so much to both! and John, Your always answering my questions- thank you.
what about using some gasketing material on one side. either cork or rubber. you can attach with contact cement. either material is available in sheet form. you may have to adjust the hinges to allow for the extra space it will take up
Arnie, after doing a quick google search, I'm a bit lost by your suggestion, but it sounds intriguing. Would you be able to expand on the gasketing material? and location of where it would go?
http://woodworking.rockler.com/search?asug=&w=cork&Search.x=43&Search.y=19&Search=Submit
shows some cork sheets.
http://www.google.com/products/catalog?hl=en&sugexp=frgbld&pq=rubber+gasket+material&cp=15&gs_id=z&xhr=t&q=rubber+gasket+tape&client=safari&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.,cf.osb&biw=1024&bih=672&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=18015565903156694872&sa=X&ei=_ud9T-XNK4acgwfgqv2HDg&sqi=2&ved=0CD4Q8wIwAQ
the above is a rubber gasket tape.
many arts and craft stores have the cork, as for the gasket, i did a search on rubber gasket material, and rubber gasket tape and found the one above.
obviously this solution shows off your case, rather than hiding it behind a secondary case. i suspect that defeats the purpose of your woodworking efforts......
Nick, sorry i just caught your second question. i would put the gasket material where the top and bottom sections of the case meet...and run it all the way around. and i would just put it on probably the top, as if it was on the bottom section it has a higher probability of getting hit by something, whenthe case is open
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April 4, 2012 at 12:55 PM · I have some antique cases, including 2 Hills and an old French, plus a modern retro style wood double case made for me by Ed Maday, built to house 2 of his own instruments that he made for me. But these are all strictly stay-at-home display cases.
Two solutions:
1. Get another case for trasporation - a modern one with a built-in cover and other safety features. There are loads of such cases available today for as low as $100-150. Go to Google or to Shar produts.
2. If you just love the idea of taking your restored case around with you, get a padded case cover by Cushy or Morandian. They are designed more for thermal protection than rain, but unless you're out for a long time in a serious downpour, they will help with rain protection, too. Let them know the exact dimensions of your case.