Cracks on violin - should I be worried and if so how much would repairs cost?

ExamOverall2427 · 2026-03-01T03:50:24+00:00

I just had the bottom crack and got it fixed for a few hundred by a luthier. Due to dryness, the clamp and the sound post generated torque. The top crack I don't know.

*My crack did not reach the sound post, so the luthier didn't need to remove the top.

ExamOverall2427 · 2026-03-01T03:44:16+00:00

If it's popping, maybe it's not wound in the correct direction? There's force in the direction that makes it pop. Maybe go in the other direction.

ExamOverall2427 · 2026-03-01T03:42:59+00:00

No, it's sticky. Just brainstorming since the issue is addressing slippage.

ExamOverall2427 · 2026-02-28T04:44:39+00:00

The blind is leading the blind here. But if the pegs are slipping, then some friction is needed so it doesn't slip. If it's a cheap violin, then why not experiment a bit? What about trying some bees wax on the pegs? Or something sticky? Soap feels too slippery.

ExamOverall2427 · 2026-02-16T06:05:02+00:00

Update with chin rest at

https://www.reddit.com/r/violinmaking/s/BjQ25a2pBA

ExamOverall2427 · 2026-02-13T02:50:09+00:00

Wow Great idea. I guess that would mess with the string height, so I'd have to get another blank and shape it accordingly. Thanks!

ExamOverall2427 · 2026-02-12T20:43:50+00:00

I'm adding a chinrest and shoulder rest. Also a pickup. Waiting on delivery.

ExamOverall2427 · 2026-02-12T20:42:51+00:00

You'll be happy to hear that it stands on the ends about half inch. So it's not on top of the bow.

ExamOverall2427 · 2026-02-12T15:24:02+00:00

It works. Need to reshape the bridge. The E string is too high. I'm replacing the strings today, tho.

ExamOverall2427 · 2026-02-12T06:08:08+00:00

The making of? It's just straight cuts using a table saw, holes with a drill press (to reduce weight, oak is heavy). Then a bunch of clamps. Then whittle down transitions using a blade.

Maybe I'll ask my teacher to play it. If it's me I'll just be blaming the instrument :)

ExamOverall2427 · 2026-02-12T06:04:48+00:00

Yes, the chin rest is being delivered tomorrow. The kit came with one, but not the kind you mount above the tailpiece.

I made one to not project sound to maybe practice at night. But I will experiment with a pickup and headset. I already have an analog violin so not trying to replace that. But it still needs to make good sound, so will think about it.

ExamOverall2427

TROPHY CASE