Tom Hammond
03-13-2011, 7:18 AM
Not one of those toys for kids with the beads. I'm making the real thing... a chinese suanpan 5-2 abacus... probably 18-24 digits across (whatever the traditional number is). My son's girlfriend is a naturalized American from China. She once said she was taught how to use an abacus in school, but no longer has one. She said she'd like to get one as a decorative piece... so I thought "Hmmm... the design is pretty simple, maybe I'll just make it. So, I've got myself a few pieces of nice walnut, including the dowels... but now I need the beads.
I don't want to make these things myself... actually, I know I won't. However, I've tried finding them seemingly everywhere. I need a resource for high-quality beads appropriate for this type of item. Any input is GREATLY appreciated. Thanks, guys.
Tom
I don't want to make these things myself... actually, I know I won't. However, I've tried finding them seemingly everywhere. I need a resource for high-quality beads appropriate for this type of item. Any input is GREATLY appreciated. Thanks, guys.
Tom