Modular Fiddle Off-the-Shelf Parts Kit (Violin, Viola, 5-String, and 1/2 Size)

This kit of parts includes all of the purchased parts you need to build up a Modular Fiddle of your choice. Options include 4-string violin, 4-string viola (medium length), 5-string (short and medium length), and half size 4-string violin.

This kit also includes the print files you need for your specific configuration! This ensures that you receive only the most up-to-date files that match your parts. All kits now ship with V3 hardware, but you will still receive all the parts you need to build a V2 fiddle if that’s what you want to do.

Printed parts sold separately as a Modular Fiddle Printed Parts Kit. If you would like me to build the fiddle for you, just purchase this kit, a printed parts kit, and the assembly labor.

Important Options

Choose from the drop-down menu to create the Modular Fiddle of your dreams. Please note that adding a pickup is no longer an option. I am working on updating the electric options — if you would like to build an electric violin please email me through the contact page to discuss.

Type of Instrument?

Choose between 4-string violin, 4-string viola, 5-string, and half size 4-string violin.

Note: for the half size there are not actually multiple options. Select Violin Length, Geared Uke Tuners, and print your own chin rest. All half size builds use Tune-a-lele tuners.

String Length?

For a 4-string violin or half size, choose standard violin (330mm).

For a 4-string viola, choose medium (360mm). If you are interested in a longer instrument, please contact us.

For a 5-string, choose standard violin (330mm) or medium (360mm). Standard will feel most comfortable if you are used to playing a standard violin, but if you have large hands or are OK with a bit of a stretch, consider the medium option. The longer strings allow much better resonance of the low C and G strings and the difference in tone is striking.

Which Tuner Style?

Tune-a-lele pegs are no longer available (they broke too often). I now recommend geared uke machines for all DIY builds. Another option is to use Perfection Pegs. They are high quality and lightweight, but expensive and require a pegbox reaming tool for installation. If you would like to use Perfection Pegs, just select “No Tuners” and order your perfection pegs (7.8mm) separately. I find the best price on Fiddlershop, here.

The uke machines give you fine-tuning accuracy without needing fine tuners, but they are a bit heavy and they change the style of the instrument to a more guitar-style look. They do not require special tools to install.

What kind of chin rest?

You can print your own chin rest and I will send you the hardware needed to install it. You’ll need to use a soldering iron to install the heat press threaded inserts, but if you’re also purchasing a printed parts kit I will go ahead and install the inserts. If you would prefer a wooden chin rest, I can do that, too.

Kit Includes

• All print files needed for your specific configuration
• Nylon tailpiece cord
• Guarneri style chin rest OR hardware for a printed chin rest
• Carbon fiber tubes (for the 5-string, one truss is drilled to allow D string to pass through)
• Neck fasteners (medium length instruments only)
• V3 Hardware (M3 bolts and heat press inserts)
• Tuners of your choice
• D’Addario Ascente strings for 4-string builds or Helicore strings for 5-string builds (Strings are subject to availability and may change)

This kit does not include a violin case. Shipping is free to the domestic US via USPS Priority.

Note: PLA plastic fails quickly at high temperatures! Do not leave your instrument in a hot car!