Wood was clear and straight Cuts were precise Hardware was packaged and labeled Instructions were thorough and clear This is absolutely a very good kit!

I actually bought a used assembled Mt. Dulcimer. However I have built 2 Kanteles and 3 of the Strumbly kits. I did notice the quality of the wood and the construction of this used one was top notch. In fact although it was used it was in pristine condition. Important factors of course, were that it played smoothly and sounded very bright and melodic. It is a quality and solid instrument. Wonderful.

I made two of these mountain dulcimer kits: one for my newlywed husband and one for me. I learned a lot about working with wood and both instruments came out looking and sounding stunning. I'm surprised at the volume and tone both of them carry compared to many professionally bought dulcimers. Attention to detail and thinking ahead about what the instructions mean for you to do is key. I was so excited about the kits turning out so well that I then made a bowed psaltry from blueprints, and I couldn't be more pleased with it, either--fifteen years later!

I had some wonderful hours of enjoyment building the instrument and was happy with the quality of all materials and hardware. I found my communication with Music Makers excellent as all staff members I spoke to (via email) were very helpful, courteous and respectful. I am also very happy with my finished dulcimer which looks and sounds very good.

My son and I recently bought and completed the Mountain Dulcimer kit. Both building and playing it have been a very enjoyable and rewarding experience. The instructions were very clear and well thought out. It does help to read them through ahead of time (we did this repeatedly during the build) so you can anticipate upcoming steps. We ran into a slight discrepancy in that the scroll head lacked the ledge described in the instructions for the nut to rest on, but we were able to compensate by leaving a gap and letting the nut rest directly on the soundboard. We used several coats of Varathane wipe-on polyurethane varnish for a finish on the main body, and that came out well. All in all, a great kit, particular for first-time instrument builders.

"Satisfied with your purchase"? Couldn't be more satisfied! I've not yet completed the mountain dulcimer kit but am well underway -- at my age, 75, I don't rush through things anymore. I've encountered no problems, the instructions are very clear and I'm having fun. What more could anyone ask? "Satisfied with your purchase"? I must say YES.

I want you to know how much fun I had doing the work on this since this was the very first musical instrament that I have every tried to build. When I did have a problem or question, when I called I received the best help to get me through the problem. I am now looking forward to learning how to play this dulcimer and I know that it will be a joy.

I really enjoyed building my hourglass dulcimer kit! I am really pleased with the quality of the kit. I had never used a router before, but with the bit kit that I purchased with the kit, I had no problem at all- really good instructions on that part.

By following the centerline method on all parts, I was able to assemble everything with good alignment. I found it easier to rough cut the bottom and top before the glue up and then just rout it to shape. I was even able to get the rosettes aligned and install the banding front and back. That part was little scary, but the router did the cut perfectly and it turned out great!! Used a wipe on satin finish and paste waxed it.

Have had great comments from my friends and one of them is ordering the kit for her husband for Christmas!

The materials and directions were good, except for one shortcoming. The notch in the peg head for the nut had not been cut at the factory. You need to make sure either it is cut, or change your directions so that the recipient knows to cut that notch (as I had to do). Very happy with finished product. Used the Deft lacquer and paste wax as recommended by you. Will be back for more kits in the future.