Chris combines modern technology and engineering equipment with antique machinery that dates from the time of manufacture of the original flutes that he emulates. In this regard, a typical flute section will be turned and roughed out on a modern machine lathe, finished on a mid-nineteenth century Holtzappfel treadle lathe and finally decorated with silver engraving on one of his hand-powered antique Engine lathes. Chris makes every part of the flute himself and even goes so far as to make his own tools and cutters.Holtz.htmlEngine%20turning.htmlToolmaking.htmlshapeimage_1_link_0shapeimage_1_link_1shapeimage_1_link_2
He has examined, played and taken measurements from some of the finest examples of flutes from makers such as Rudall and Rose. He now feels that he has finished his 'apprenticeship' and can go on to perfect his flutemaking. There is always a lot to learn and he is continually refining his art. Chris Wilkes is a painstaking flute maker whose objective in working is to constantly improve and try to combine good playing characteristics and superior tone with fine craftsmanship, aesthetic design and ergonomic keywork. He is self taught and has been making flutes for the last 20 years based on master instruments of the early to mid-nineteenth century. To see Chris at work Click here