verhoevc - 12-1-2014 at 09:28 AM
Some of ya'll may remember my trip to the Salmeen Oud company last year (I can't seem to find the thread anymore though... so here's a link to the
pics again if you're interested: http://s95.photobucket.com/user/verhoevc/library/Salmeen )
This year I'll be going to Turkey and once again have contacted some builders to meet and spend some time with! I still have not built an Oud (only
guitars so far) or even bought plans (maybe in Turkey!), but owuld like to bring the folks I visit a small gift. I was thinking some US hardwoods that
they don't have good access to would be nice to bring along. However, without plans it's difficult for me to say "ok, I'll bring them some cool rib
material!"
I was hoping someone could give me some measurements (length/width/thickness) as well as number needed for a set of ribs that I could bring with me. I
know all Ouds are different, etc. But it would be really helpful is someone could give me enough information so that I show up with something usable
for these guys.
Thanks in advance,
Chris
freya - 12-1-2014 at 04:18 PM
You could also consider a sinker redwood (sequoia) top. Definitely American but might be looked at a bit askance...
Cheers
verhoevc - 12-3-2014 at 05:48 AM
So I did a bunch of research on Oud geometry... and did a 3D rendering of a potential 18.5cm=D Oud... and here's what I got:
Stave lengths: about 25.25"
Circumfrance around widest/deepest bowl section: about 21.85"
If there are 13 staves that makes each: about 1.65" wide
So could someone please let me know if this makes sense: If I show up with 13+ pieces all 26x1.75x1/8" I should be good?
Thanks,
Chris
verhoevc - 12-9-2014 at 05:10 AM
Bump: Can no one simply verify that these pieces will yield a usable set for my host?
Chris
ExtreamTarab - 12-9-2014 at 11:31 AM
Hey Chris, I would say the length should be 28" long. 26" I think is short, at least for Arabic ouds. Better be on the safe side. Also make sure you
take enough pieces for a complete back, 13 won't be enough I think. Good luck and enjoy your trip 
SamirCanada - 12-9-2014 at 11:41 AM
The typical Turkish oud has 21 ribs. I would stick to 2 inch wide by 28" or 30" long if you can do it. They will be more than pleased with this.
as a suggestion, some nice figured maple, cherry and/or dark walnut would be best.
and as Freya says a nice Sinker top !! I want to try making a oud with one soon 
verhoevc - 12-10-2014 at 05:43 AM
Thanks guys! That really helps.
Right now I'm thinking of bringing Persimmon. It's the only true ebony to grow in the Americas and is thus a fairly unique piece for someone in
Turkey. Maybe I'll bring alternating Persimmon and curly maple? We'll see!
Chris