Rib Crowning Practice

Jude, the shop owner, uses several species of softwood for ribs. One piano usually has two kinds depends on the area, load, and more. After his calculation of ribs on each piano, we start the milling process. Each time of milling is a new practice. And each time is nerve racking to make it right, or almost right.

He has gages from 4 meter radius to 15 meter radius. Each rib is designed with its own radius, length, width, and height. They are tall in the middle and short at two ends. The wood stock has to be straight, also longer, taller, and wider than the spec. 

Each pass through the table saw and planer has to be steady and cut just the planned amount. Think before doing, always. Sometimes the brain has to spin three times before the hands actually do the work. One mistake, say, cutting off 1 mm too much, results in remaking that rib. Yes, 1 mm of rib width or height makes a difference.

After the ribs are made, they are fitted in the piano lengthwise. The rib ends have to fit in the slots on inner rim as close as possible. Cutting or sanding a little at a time takes focus and time. At the beginning, I wanted it done quickly to show off to the boss and go home early, but always ended up chopping or sanding too much wood off. Now, the boss is not going to fire me anytime soon (hopefully) and Ernie is always there to have dinner together no matter how late I get home. There is no need to rush and the piano will feel better.

In the end, one can shout to Ms. piano and her ribs, "you are fit, girl. Sleep well. I'll see ya tomorrow!"​