Optional Care: Polishing

Beginners and young players may skip this section. It is offered only as an introduction to more advanced players who want to get more out of their reeds. Those wishing more detailed information about working on reeds should consult their private instructor or band director.

A reed will play more evenly if the back or "table" of the reed is absolutely flat. After soaking the reed (see above), take a piece of 400 or 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper and place it abrasive side up on a rigid, flat surface. Rub the flat portion (the table of the reed) a few strokes across the sandpaper, making sure to sand with the grain of the reed rather than across it. Avoid sanding the area behind the tip of the reed. It is only necessary to polish the portion of the reed that rests against the flat table of the mouthpiece. Rubbing in the area from the butt to a point about one inch below the tip of the reed is satisfactory.

A less demanding method of polishing uses plain white typing or computer paper. Be sure to use a high quality paper with a high linen rag content. The rougher texture of this paper polishes the reed more easily. Proceed with the polishing as if you were using the sandpaper. Because the typing paper is less abrasive than the sandpaper, you may polish the entire length of the reed, from butt to tip. When the back of the reed feels smooth and shiny, the polishing is complete.