YouTube user Tim Sway posted a video recently of a bass built from a hollow door. Yes, really. That body hole you see in the image above is where the doorknob went.
Is this build a monument to good tone? Obviously not. Rather, it’s just something to prove that when you put your mind to it, you can build a bass out of pretty much anything.
There are two things very cool about the video below.
First, Tim shows the screw-ups and what Tim decided to leave screwed up.
Second is the addendum at the end of the video where it’s explained how the design failed, and what to do better next time around.
Technically, yes, this is a failed build because it started to come apart after completion. But at the same time it’s a winner of a build just for being daring enough to use such flimsy body material and actually have it work (even if only for a short period of time.)
You are an evil genius! But I think it’s pretty obvious that a big old chunk of wood needs to run the length of the center of the body, to keep everything mostly straight.
Thanks! I was hoping the plywood would have enough strength to hold up like an acoustic body ( IE my Washburn ab20) but it didn’t. Google waterski bass for a fun one that works great!
Fantastic! I love builds that can inspire a normal person to make an instrument, and realise that it doesn’t have to be super-smooth and professional – just lots of fun.
thanks jake. i have a few others on my youtube.com/timsway channel. including an electric double bass made from a scrap 2×4 that still works!
Very cool, imaginative, and gallant effort! I’d be willing to say every guitar builder had a tough go on their prototype. I enjoyed watching your project and I’m looking forward to your next project.
thanks michael. i’ve made a bunch of “alternative” instruments out of reclaimed materials. most of them work! ha ha. check out my youtube page or google “waterski bass” and you’ll find some that are a little better.
Tim Sway is a rock star. Look at some of his other builds and upcycling, he does great things.
no, you are the rock star who makes NICE basses 😉
Really enjoyed watching that! Quick question though: what was the WD40 for when you applied the steam-bent edging?
Looks and sounds a door-able.
I think that’s the way Reverend instruments are built.