The most beautiful drums with veneer from sustainable forestry made in Basel
In Basel, the use of veneer to make traditional drums is a testament to the city's rich tradition and commitment to sustainability. Stefan Freiermuth, a trained carpenter and managing director of Schlebach Trommelbau AG, is currently working on a major order for 75 drums, the largest in the company's history. The drums, which are an integral part of the Basel carnival, are made from a variety of veneers from sustainable forestry that emphasise the beauty and diversity of the wood. While the body of the drums is made of dense maple plywood, the use of veneer for the outer layer is primarily for decorative purposes, with a current trend towards exotic woods. The emphasis on veneer not only emphasises the importance of aesthetics, but also the city's commitment to sustainable forestry and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.
The length of the veneer sheets is not decisive in the production of the drums, rather the beauty of the wood takes centre stage. From amaranth to olive, from apple to elm - Freiermuth carefully selects each sustainably produced wood from Roser's veneer warehouse and processes it according to the customer's wishes. The use of veneers enables the production of unique and visually stunning drums, as the different types of wood give the instruments a distinctive look. This attention to the beauty and diversity of the woods not only enhances the quality of the drums, but also reflects the city's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and promoting sustainable woodworking practices.
The importance of veneer in drum making goes beyond its decorative function, as it also contributes to the sustainability of forests.It is important to use a wide range of woods as this reduces the strain on forests caused by the over-exploitation of some less favoured species.By promoting veneer diversity, the city of Basel and its craftsmen actively support the principles of sustainable forest management and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.This harmonious combination of tradition, craftsmanship and sustainability is testament to Basel's unique cultural identity and its enduring commitment to responsible wood processing.
➔ Please also read the report in Furnier Magazin 2023 about drum making in Basel with Roser veneers.
