Learn about the washboard musical instrument

First off, these look great hanging on the wall in certain restaurants and bars!!

A musical washboard, also known simply as a washboard, is a percussive musical instrument that is made from a standard washboard typically used for laundry. It is played by rubbing various objects (such as washboard gloves, brushes, wooden thimbles, etc) against the textured surface of the washboard, as well as the upper wood surface (and whatever other cool things that I mount on them).  This creates a distinctive, nostalgic, rhythmic sound.

The washboard's corrugated surface acts as a resonator, amplifying the percussive sound produced by the rubbing or striking motions. Players use their different types of implements (washboard gloves or brushes) to achieve different tones, rhythms and textures.

The washboard is often associated with early 20th-century American jazz, blues, and folk music, and it was commonly used in jug bands and skiffle groups. It continues to be used in various musical genres, especially in folk, roots, Dixieland and traditional music, although I have even used them for specific rock songs, or as a drum set substitute in addition with a kick drum. 

While the musical washboard may not be as prominent in contemporary music, it remains a unique and recognizable instrument with a distinctive sound, nostalgic look and historic roots that adds flair and flavor to a band.

Musical washboards are excellent entry level instruments. 

They are great gateway instruments to drum set, percussion or other instruments.

They are also great instruments for percussionists or drummers who can make a very easy transition to playing washboard.  This can open up new horizons and musical opportunities, which can mean other groups, genres, or additional uniqueness to your songs.

Washboards are very easy to carry, move, play and require very little set up time when playing at live events.

We can even add pickups so you can plug directly into a PA system! No microphones required!

Washboards are very easy to learn to play, since you typically only use your hands, and a basic washboard only has a few sounds,  As you progress, you can always add more instruments to it.

Washboards are played by tapping or scraping the washboard.

We recommend using gloves with bottle caps glued on the fingertips, to reduce wear and tear on the washboards.

We also recommend plastic bristle brushed for more subtle, textured playing.

Metal brushes can also be used as well for even more subtle playing.

Unless otherwise noted, all washboards start with a tried and true 80+ year old Zinc King Washboard made by the National Washboard Company, which is known and loved for their great sound. 

Each unit has been completely restored and treated, then strengthened. These are excellent, high-quality washboards for beginners or pros alike.  Great care and years of trial and error have gone into the research and production of these extremely unique and wonderful antique washboards. 

All work is meticulously hand crafted with great care and dedication.

YES!!  Absolutely! 

This is exactly how all of this started: to fill a musical need that a drum set, cajon, or other percussion instrument just didn't seem right for.

40+ years of musical playing and building allow me to tailor make your instruments to your band, genre or musical requirements. I can work with you to create the perfect instrument and set up.

Years of trial and error, research, live playing and years of feedback from musicians, listeners and venue owners have all factored into the art of building these precious instruments to turn antique novelties into highly functioning, great sounding works of art.

Functionality meets antiquities and nostalgia. 

Please contact us to discuss.

YES!!  Absolutely! 

Unless otherwise noted, all of these washboards are over 80 years old and go through a detailed restoration process.  In some cases, they are completely taken apart and put back together again, making them stronger than they ever were.

Please contact us to discuss.