When I lived in a climate with more variable humidity I used to keep my
viols stable using moist sponges wrapped in aluminum foil. I'd pierce
the foil a few times, then wrap it in a cloth to further slow the
moisture transfer.
How much of a difference humidity changes can make was pretty strikingly
illustrated when a friend in Minnesota built a fitted case for his
krummhorns. These wind instruments are made from steam-bent wood and
are in the shape of a letter "J." When he built the case his whole set
fit perfectly, each in its own slot. Then winter arrived, and he
discovered that the bend altered strikingly as the humidity changed,
enough so he eventually had to give up on the case.
- Marty
On 10/07/2010 11:53 AM, Matthew Szostak wrote:
Hey Dennis!
I've used a sponge - but I've put it in plastic container, the kind with a
snap-on lid meant to carry your bar of soap when you travel. Just pop a
bunch of holes in the top. Squish-resistant...
~ Matt
Chicago can be very humid in summer, and very dry in winter.
I find that simply keeping a damp sponge (regular cheap kitchen type) in a
sandwich baggie (flip top, not zip) in the case works well enough to
humidify
the case during the heating season. No need for an expensive purpose
built
humidifier.
You do have to be careful not to get too much water in the sponge - damp,
not
wet. And remember to check regularly (every few days) to re-wet it. But
otherwise, it has been working well for me.
--
Dennis Sherman
Chicago, IL, USA
http://www.dennissherman.com
--
Martin Lodahl of Auburn, California
UNIX Pro, Musician, Motorcyclist
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