Please note:
This guide contains reedmaking directions for use with the KJI Reedmaking System. Attempting to adapt your personal reedmaking style to these instructions may deliver mixed results. For consistent results, we recommend learning more about the KJI System here.
Step One:
Soak the KJI 117 GSP Cane in warm water for one hour. It should be possible for the cane to be completely submerged in water.
Step Two:
Cut three pieces of soft, 22-gauge brass wire to 65mm in length.
Step Three:
Score the tube five times on each side.
- Cut one long score (collar to tube) in the middle.
- Cut two shorter scores (⅔ to ¾) on either side of the middle cut.
Use a razor blade, preferably in the form of an exacto knife, to do this.
Step Four:
Fold the cane over a knife or thin straight edge at the center line of the cane’s profile.
OPTIONAL
Mark your wire positions:
1st Wire – 2mm back from collar.
2nd Wire – 7mm back from collar.
3rd Wire – 5mm from tube end.
Step Five:
Wrap your first wire at the 2mm mark from the collar.
Wrap your second wire at the 7mm mark from the collar.
DO NOT TIGHTEN THESE WIRES COMPLETELY YET.
Step Six:
Insert the tip of Mandrel #1 into the tube.
Use Mandrel #1 as a handle and wrap the third wire at the 5mm mark from the tube.
Step Seven:
Tighten the first and second wires.
Step Eight:
Using a small pair of reed or needlenose pliers, press gently on the sides of the tube between the first and second wires, then on the second wire while inserting Mandrel #1 all the way to the stop point.
Step Nine:
Tighten the first and second wires.
Squeeze lightly all over the tube below the second wire. This is best done with reed pliers that include a forming cutout, like these.
Step Ten:
Remove Mandrel #1 and Insert Mandrel #2.
Tighten the first and second wires and use your pliers to round the tube at the second wire as you continue inserting Mandrel #2 all the way to the stop point.
Step Eleven:
Remove Mandrel #2 and insert Mandrel #3.
Use your pliers to form the tube around the third wire as you continue inserting Mandrel #3 all the way to the first line mark.
Tighten the third wire.
Step Twelve:
Remove Mandrel #3 and press the blank tightly onto the drying rack pin.
Allow the blank to settle/mature for at least three days.
