How to make a whistle

How to make a whistle.

In just a few steps you can make a whistle. With a few creative customizations you can have a variety of whistles. Make a short whistle for a high pitched sound and take it along when you camp or hike.

Here is what you need:

• 4 inch stick or dowel about ½ to ¾ inch in diameter.
• Thinner stick or dowel about 5/16 to ½ inch in diameter.
• Tools: whittling knife, saw, ruler,
• Wood glue (preferably waterproof)
• Finish – shellac, paint, or what you wish

Step 1. Drill the hole and make the notch

1. Carefully drill a hole part way through the center of the stick or large dowel. The larger the hole and the longer the whistle the lower the pitch will be.
2. Cut a notch about ½ to ¾ inch in from the end with the hole. Cut down to about ½ of the hole. The notch should have one side parallel to the end of the whistle. The other edge of the notch should be cut at 45 degrees. If you cut it too steep, there won't be enough air passing by and the whistle will not work.

Step 2. Carve the insert.

Take the smaller dowel or stick and cut it in a slice shape. I've found that the slope should ramp up from the edge of the dowel to just past the middle.

Step 3. Insert Insert

 

Push the insert in so that the front edge aligns with the straight edge of the notch. Test it! You may have to adjust the insert in or out to get the best sound, When you are happy with the sound, glue the insert into place. After the glue dries, trim off any of the insert that sticks out of the whistle.

When you finish the whistle, be careful not to let the finish change the airspace. Paint can make it thinner and other finishes can be absorbed and change the shape of the wood.