Thanks for all the ideas! PG, I've added David's website to my favorite list - it's going to take me a while to work thru the whole thing, but it looks really interesting.
Russ, can I ask where you bought the kit that you built? I get a catalog from Musicmakers (I think that's right). They are in the US, somewhere in the east, I think. I was thinking of getting the partially constructed kit and then finishing it myself.
Norval, the Ardies Dulcimers looks like a great site! I have to finish reading thru it - but I'd never thought about RENTING a dulcimer before buying or building. One more option to think about!
My reasons for building are economical - not because I'm really enamoured of woodworking, altho I do like messing about with my scroll saw. It's just easier to come up with $400 than $1000 for an instrument. However, I take the point that the sound may not be what I expect.
Much to consider - and other suggestions for both instrument sources and instruction are welcome.
Cheers,
PB