Shakuhachi Cap 尺八キャップ

How to make a protective cap for the top of your shakuhachi (Japanese bamboo flute). The cap helps protect the fragile blowing edge (utaguchi). This project requires a small amount of hand sewing. If you are not skilled at sewing, go ahead and try it anyway.
Supplies

leather or leatherette
heavy thread (such as size #6 nylon)
scrap paper
snap (optional)
Outline Top

Trace the top of your shakuhachi onto a scrap piece of paper as shown.
Adjust Size

Add a small margin for sewing.
Paper Template

Cut out template. I made the height 4.5cm. The overall width of the "wings/flaps" should be the circumferences of your shakuhachi plus 1 cm on each end. The top edges need to angle down to approximate the back angle of the top of your flute (where it fits your chin).
Cut Out Leatherette

Trace template onto leather or leatherette and cut out along with two extra pieces. The next step will help show the sizes of the extra pieces.
Glue Extra Pieces

Glue the extra pieces to the inside. Leave a small space as shown, for where it will fold. Use lots of glue so that this part becomes stiff. This will add extra protection against bumps.
Sew

Sew each side "wing/flap" separately too the top circle. Trim the first one vertically to line up approximately with the back of your flute as shown. Overlap the second flap over the first one--see photo on next step.
Finish at Back


Finish with an extra stitch or two. You can add a snap for a tighter fit. The snap I had on hand was too big for my liking and I removed it.