
3D printing of serpents designed by Mark Witkowski (Bate "Dittes" model)

You can request downloads of all the 3D printer files required to make this full size serpent by visiting www.serpentwebsite.com and following the instructions given there. 

The serpent is a wood bass horn with a characteristic curved shape and six finger holes for playing and a near conical bore. They were used for many centuries to accompany sung liturgy in French churches. When played softly the serpent complements the human voice extremely well. When played more loudly the serpent provides a solid bass line and they were introduced into military bands from about the 1750s onwards being used extensively throughout Europe and in the USA until the 1830s when they were completely superseded by more modern instruments.

This serpent is based on an early 19th Century example, named for Jean Frédéric Dittes (1783-1833) a piano and instrument maker of Strasbourg. It is held in the Bate Collection, Oxford (inventory #500). This instrument can be adjusted to modern notions of pitch standardisation. The bocal is adjustable for fine pitch control, but must be made airtight with waxed thread before use.

The complete instrument takes up to 200 hours to print and uses nearly 2Kg of filament material.

Before you start making, read the guide document included with the files and watch Paul Schmidt’s “how to” video documentary at https://youtu.be/pDgu9FIfCWs.

Print each of the 23 instrument parts as provided in PLA or PET-G (recommended for strength). Consider using 30-35% infill and 3 edge layers (1.2mm). Layer height of 0.2mm is a reasonable compromise. Likewise print the five bocal parts and either or both mouthpieces (two parts each). 

Label each part as you complete it, it's easy to lose track. 

Check for pin-holes and delamination, discard failed parts - any air leaks in the final instrument will very adversely affect performance.

Consider coating the interior of the parts with sanding sealer to fill any minute pin-holes and (possibly) reduce the acoustic effect of the print layer striations. 

Deburr each part and sand top and bottom so they are smooth. Use a 3mm drill to open up the registration holes.

Glue the parts together systematically. You can use short lengths of 3mm filament to form the registration pins between parts. Ensure there are no gaps.

Assemble body, bocal and mouthpiece, play - and enjoy!

You are welcome to use these designs for personal, performance and educational use. If appropriate please acknowledge the design as “3D design by Dr. Mark Witkowski”. Contact me if you have suggestions for improvements or wish to make these serpent designs commercially.

Apologies for any errors or omissions - they happen.

Design by Dr. Mark Witkowski (CMW).
m.witkowski@imperial.ac.uk
27/03/2021