top of page
Writer's pictureShane Speal

Free Plans: Make a Tin Pan Banjo - 1923 (plus the Sound Searchers 2 Banjo)

Updated: Sep 26


The following plans were first published in Popular Mechanics in 1923. These were used to make the banjo in Sound Searchers 2: The Tin Pan Banjo. Print this page to have your own copy.


Scroll down for a photo diagram of the completed Sound Searchers banjo.


This parts list was gleaned from the original article:

  • White pine, 24" x 2.5" x approx. 1.25" (I suggest a hardwood)

  • Small piece of wood for bridge, approx. 2" x .5" x .125"

  • Tin pie pan

  • Pack of 5-string banjo strings

  • Wood tuning pegs. (I suggest geared tuners if using steel banjo strings)

  • Copper or brass sheet for bridge. (I suggest brass or something stronger than copper)

Original 1923 article:


This illustration shows a homemade banjo that has a shallow tin pan for a body. Although this instrument is not intended to compare with manufactured ones in construction and finish, it has a good tone quality and volume. A homemade banjo of this type is within the means of every amateur musician, as it can be made for less than a dollar.


The instrument consists of a 10 inch shallow tin pan and a white pine neck. The shape and size of the neck are clearly shown in the detail. To attach it to the pan, a rectangular hole is cut in the side of the latter, and the neck is pushed through. It is then fastened securely with 1-1/4 inch wood screws, which, at the same time hold the tailpiece in place.


The tailpiece is made from a piece of sheet copper or brass, bent to the shape indicated; it is slotted for five steel banjo strings. While attaching the neck to the pan, care must be taken not to allow it to touch the bottom, as this would greatly impair the resonance of the body. A bridge, about 1/2 inch his is cut from a piece of wood about 1/8 inch thick and fitted in place.


Pegs can be purchased for a few cents each, or if desired, they can be whittled out of hardwood.


The Sound Searchers Banjo:



4,980 views2 comments

Recent Posts

See All

2 bình luận


Philip Taylor
Philip Taylor
08 thg 4, 2022

Now I have a use for my grandmother's old baking pan. It dates to the 1920s when she got married. Thanks for this idea.

Thích
Mark
Mark
08 thg 4, 2022
Phản hồi lại

Great idea vintage pan for a vintage instrument.

Thích
bottom of page