As I make my banjo rims, I save any extra segments for later use. Sometimes I can match an orphan piece into another rim or I can match many orphans together to good effect. That is the case with this rim, made from curly maple segments from several other banjos. It still matches the curly maple neck, but offers a unique look. I also made my own brass tension hoop for this one, a process I hope I have more time for this year. The maple is from the Carpenter Ant stash in Portland and the pistachio is from California orchards.

“Dear Aaron and Nicole,
My banjolele arrived on Friday and I have been enjoying playing it ever since! I’m afraid my other ukes will have to stand in line for a bit, while I learn some new tunes and playing techniques.

Your work is so beautiful. I enjoyed the pictures along the way of the construction and then the personalized video, explaining the woods and process.

Stay well, keep making beautiful instruments and providing us with new learnings.

Many thanks from a very happy customer,
- J. C.

”