What I've done is refined my building processes into step by step building guides for three instruments, The Box Xylophone , the Two Octave Mini Marimba , and the Three Octave Concert Marimba. Frequently Asked Questions about Making Marimbas and Xylophones Do I need special wood for the bars? The great thing about this project is that it will work for you, no matter what wood you have available Concert quality instruments are usually made from Honduras Rosewood or African padouk, and obviously the better wood you have access to the better instrument you ll be able to make. However you can make this instrument from just about any hardwood (eg, Oak, Durian or Meranti). How much will the materials Cost? Depending on where you live you should be able to get all the materials you need for between $350 - $450, from the local hardware or wood supply store. If you wish to make a better quality instrument you can of course invest in a better quality wood, such as Rosewood. This...