| Project name | Instrumental to success: modern epoxy for traditional didgeridoos |
|---|---|
| Client | Heartland Didgeridoos |
| Location | Urunga, New South Wales |
| Application | Coating, Strengthen and Repair |
Project snapshot
Didgeridoos are distinctive wind instruments traditionally made from hardwood, hollowed out by termites. They have been used by Australia’s Aboriginal cultures for over 1,000 years, and are deeply related to Country and spirituality. Heartland Didgeridoos handcraft rare, individual instruments from naturally hollowed timber: both custom-made and as a “make your own experience” for clients. For around 10 years, Megapoxy has been part of this meticulous process, helping to safely repair, strengthen, seal and stabilise the timber. It’s where the science of Megapoxy meets traditional craftsmanship, creating unique pieces of playable art.
Client needs + challenges
Natural cracks and holes need to be repaired and strengthened, while instruments need long-lasting protection and exceptional sound without compromising natural character.
- Protect and stabilise the inside of the didgeridoo.
- Maintain resonance and sound projection, achieving a similar effect to the traditional practice of pouring water through the instrument.
- Find an alternative to beeswax for mouthpieces, avoiding potential health issues associated with heating beeswax in application, as well as wax moth attack.
- Repair and strengthen natural cracks and holes, while matching the surrounding timber’s natural colour.
Solutions, service + simplicity
Heartland typically allows its naturally hollowed timber to dry and cure for 2-10 years. Megapoxy formulations are used at key stages as the timber is transformed into a finished instrument.
- Megapoxy 132 is used to line and seal the inside of the instrument and create custom mouthpieces. Its low-viscosity formulation allows it to coat the naturally irregular internal surface, creating a strong, durable finish approved for food-contact and potable-water applications.
- Megapoxy 69 is used to repair and strengthen natural cracks and fill holes in the timber. Its non-sag consistency makes it well suited to detailed repairs, while pigment can be added to closely match the surrounding wood. Once cured, it can be sanded and finished to help repairs blend naturally into each individual instrument.
Standout benefits
- Strong, durable protection and lasting repairs.
- Alternative to heated beeswax, avoiding respiratory, allergy and wax moth concerns.
- Colour-matched repairs that blend with the natural timber.
- Simple mixing and application.
- Low and very-low VOC.
- Faster curing internal lining – saving days in cure time vs polyurethane previously used.
