A capo is a handy tool used by guitarists to change the pitch of their instrument by shortening the playable length of the strings. While commercial capos are widely available, you can create a makeshift capo using everyday objects. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a capo with a pencil, providing a simple and temporary solution when a capo is not readily accessible.
Materials Needed: To make a capo with a pencil, you will need the following materials:
- Pencil: Choose a wooden pencil without an eraser. A standard-sized pencil will work well.
- Rubber Bands: Gather a few small, sturdy rubber bands. Ensure they are wide and thick enough to secure the pencil in place on the guitar neck.
- Felt or Cloth (optional): If desired, you can add a layer of felt or cloth to protect the guitar’s neck and prevent any potential scratching. Cut a small strip that is slightly wider than the pencil’s diameter.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare the Pencil: Start by removing the eraser from the pencil if it has one. You want a clean, unobstructed surface to rest against the strings.
- Position the Pencil: Place the pencil across the neck of the guitar where you want the capo to be. The pencil should be perpendicular to the strings, with one end resting against the back of the neck and the other end extending over the strings.
- Secure the Pencil: Wrap one rubber band around the neck of the guitar, securing the pencil in place. Make sure it is tight enough to hold the pencil firmly against the strings, but not so tight that it affects the guitar’s intonation.
- Optional: Add Felt or Cloth: If you want to add extra protection for the guitar’s neck, slide the strip of felt or cloth under the pencil, between the pencil and the neck. This will help prevent any potential scratching or damage.
- Test and Adjust: Strum the strings and check if they are properly fretted by the pencil. Adjust the tension of the rubber band if necessary to ensure the desired pitch change is achieved.
- Play and Enjoy: With the pencil capo in place, you can now play your guitar with the altered pitch. Experiment with different chord shapes and progressions, and explore the new sounds created by the capo.
- Removal: To remove the pencil capo, simply loosen the rubber band and slide it off the neck of the guitar. Take care when removing the rubber band to avoid any sudden movements that could potentially damage the guitar.
Conclusion:
Making a capo with a pencil provides a simple and temporary solution for changing the pitch of your guitar when a commercial capo is not available. With a pencil, rubber bands, and optional felt or cloth, you can create a makeshift capo that allows you to explore different chord voicings and musical possibilities. Remember, this homemade capo may not provide the same level of convenience and precision as a commercial capo, but it can serve as a practical alternative in a pinch.
