Whamola

What is a Whamola?

Whamola is a single-string, bass-like instrument with a handle at the end, which can be used to adjust the pitch of the instrument like the whammy bar on a guitar.  It is descendant of the diddley bow and the washtub bass.  

Why a Whamola?

Two reasons - first, the Whamola stands out amongst the more commonly 3D printed instruments.  Second, it's a cool and interesting instrument that many people may not have heard of.

Who a Whamola?

The Whamola was popularized by Les Claypool of the band Primus, and is prominently featured in the theme song of South Park.

How to Whamola?

In a sitting position, place the foot of the Whamola on your left thigh and hold the Whamola's handle with your left hand.  Ensure you can comfortably pull or release the handle as needed. Now, use your right hand to wack the strings with a drumstick or something.  You may also choose to pluck or slap the Whamola, but ultimately the Whamola is pretty lawless so just be creative and make some noise.

Printing Instructions

All components printed in place, no supports.

1. Print one of the Whamola sets (with or without the optional display stand) with a rigid filament - PETG, PLA, or similar and a reasonable infill (20%+).
2. Print a string from TPU with a 0.6mm nozzle.  Infill not required with walls at least 3 layers, 1.8mm, thick.  15mm string gives the best ‘bass’ sound.
3. Set Whamola head atop Whamola body
4. Slide string into notches on both head and body
5. Insert foot in bottom of body

How does it sound?

A short demonstration of the sound on my Whamola

Extra Information

Printed on an Ender 3 with Slice Engineering Copperhead CE heat break, 0.6mm nozzle, and Raspberry Pi 3B running Klipper.  Sliced with Cura 5.3 and custom profiles.  Model designed in Fusion 360.

Inspired by this video of Les Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade (YouTube)