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ABOUT  THE  FLUTES

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About the Flutes – Craftsmanship, Voice, Materials, and Care

Return and Repair Policy

Your satisfaction is important to me. If you're not happy with your flute, I offer a 30-day return policy. I will also repair or re-tune your flute at no charge within this period. You pay the shipping to return the flute to me, and I will cover the cost to ship it back to you.

How Long Does It Take to Make a Flute?

One of the most common questions I’m asked is, “How much time does it take to make a flute?” The answer depends on the complexity of the design.

  • A simple flute, made from a single type of wood, typically takes 8 to 10 hours to complete.

  • A more intricate flute, involving multiple woods, carving, or detailed finish work, can take 20 to 30 hours or more.

Each flute is handcrafted with care, and no two are exactly alike.

Understanding Flute Voices

The voice of a Native American style flute is shaped by many factors, but here are a few general truths:

  • Smaller flutes produce higher-pitched voices.

  • Larger flutes produce deeper, lower tones.

Traditionally, Native American flutes are known for their breathy, soulful sound. However, modern trends have introduced flutes designed for more volume, clarity, and chromatic capabilities—closer to orchestral instruments with fewer harmonics.

There’s no right or wrong here—just personal preference.

A Note for New Players:
Many beginners are drawn to the deep, low tones of larger flutes. However, I often recommend starting with higher-pitched flutes, like those in the key of A or G minor. These require less breath control and are typically easier to finger, making for a more successful and enjoyable learning experience.

Wood Types and Their Influence on Sound

I use a wide range of both softwoods and hardwoods, each with unique character and appearance.

Softwoods I use include:
Cedar, cypress, redwood, white pine, spalted maple, poplar, basswood, sassafras, and mahogany.

Hardwoods I use include:
Maple, rosewood, morado, zebrawood, yellowheart, redheart, and tigerwood.

While many people believe the wood is the primary factor in a flute’s voice, this is a common misconception. In truth, about 90% of a flute's voice comes from the nest and sound hole design. That said, the type of wood does influence tonal quality:

  • Hardwoods tend to produce a crisper, brighter sound.

  • Softwoods offer a softer, sweeter tone.

The difference is subtle and usually more noticeable to experienced flute players.

Flute Finishes – Non-Toxic and Hand-Polished

I use only low-toxicity finishes that are safe, beautiful, and durable:

Shellac

  • Natural and non-toxic

  • Contains alcohol that evaporates quickly

  • Used to seal the slow air chamber and enhance the wood’s natural color

Crystalac

  • A water-based, non-toxic finish often used on toddler toys

  • Dries quickly, has no odor, and is safe for handling and play

  • Applied in 6 to 8 coats for durability and shine

French Polish Finish

To bring out the beauty and tactile quality of each flute, I apply a traditional French polish using natural materials:

  • For a satin finish: mineral oil mixed with pumice

  • For a high-gloss finish: mineral oil mixed with rottenstone

This process enhances both the look and feel of the flute, offering a finish that is both elegant and protective.

Shipping & Packaging

All flutes are shipped with a protective flute sock and sent via insured UPS Ground or USPS Priority Mail for fast and secure delivery.

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