I also offer refurbishment of existing sets by other makers on a custom basis. Much of this work is time consuming but relatively simple and similar in form to building my own sets from the final components. The process usually requires a full strip down of the set to its basic components, the removal and renewal of old leaking bindings and polishing metalwork. It also includes removing keys and releasing/repairing key pins or springs, plus re-padding keys which may not be sealing as well as they should, causing air leakage problems (the most common piping problem of all).
I use modern waxed linen and synthetic threads alongside a traditional cobblers wax and beeswax mix for bindings and can make and repair both cane and synthetic reeds for the various chanters, drones, and regulators. I can also make new mounts to replace damaged or missing ones using CNC and in the style of the original maker and other mounts on the existing set.
I have refurbished an early full set in C pitch by Geoff Wooff for a local Newcastle-upon-Tyne based piper and restored it to excellent playing condition and have additionally worked on several B and Bb sets.
I also worked on a full set in D concert pitch for a customer which was made by the well-known UP maker Alan Ginsberg around 1992. The set had been very sadly neglected over many years and I did full restoration work, replaced mounts, re-glued and stabilized some components and added a new mount custom made. This brought it back to near original condition and some photographs of this renovation and its bellows restoration can be seen below.
