Closing observations
HoopsIf I were to fab exterior hoops again, I would cut rough hoops, then bring back to sheet metal shop to have them run flat shapes through a roller to give a more consistent curvature to hoops, rather than my somewhat inconsistent hand-hammered efforts.
Out of 8 hoops fabbed, I am not satisfied with the fit of one of them which is a bit “gappy”.
I’ll re-do it eventually, but for now is acceptable.
Here’s a video example of a roller bending sheet metal.(apologies for advertisements in video)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puBLjpAmXAgI also contemplated using stainless sheet to fab hoops, as it was available at sheet metal shop, however additional cost, and greater working difficulty of stainless made aluminum an easy choice for first attempt.
FinishI wanted to give those battered old shells a new lease on life, not just to have them look like old beaters with a new finish coat.
Wood filler sanding is messy / dusty, and another phase of the refinishing process, but it is not at all difficult(with power tools!), and made all of those deep gouges on the surface disappear under the stain.
Wood filler /stain / lacquer / paste wax produces a very even toned “hand-rubbed’ look .
I couldn’t be more pleased with final finish.
Recycled skinsAs stated, an experiment.
They sound very acceptable to me.
Less ringy than when they were placed on Patatos.
Sound is compares quite favorably to my other Gon Bops.
Eventually I’ll replace them, but for the price I really can’t complain.