Eishcom is forcing me to think of an agricultural solution to load shedding

Stoffeltoo

This weekend while rehearsing we had an unexpected and unplanned visit from the prince of darkness.

We could continue ala acoustic but without a bass. I then hit upon an idea to build my own acoustic bass but something unique from parts already in my possession or easily and cheaply sourced.

Sound box - Galvanised wash tub
String length 25.5" as i do not know the standard settings for a bass and I am afraid that the fretting may be incorrect.
Neck, a recovered First Act neck of an otherwise useless guitar
Pick ups from same useless guitar to be used during the presence of light or as a novelty with the instrument.
Hard woods from the local timber supplier, some coach screws, bolts, nuts odds and sods

I have drawn a rough sketch which I will publish once scanned.

However strings will be limited to A,D,G only as I think that there may be tension issues. The functioning of the pick ups are debatable with these heavy strings.
The question is what gauge would be suitable for such a short length wash tub bass?
Is it viable to do such a modification without having to resort to serious moola for a decent acoustic bass?

Guidance, corrections assistance will be appreciated.

Thanks

peterleroux

Sounds like you need a washtub bass https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washtub_bass

A few years ago there was a three string cardboard bass for sale http://bogdonboxbass.com/home
They used different gauges of weed eater cord for strings and they sounded decentish. Of course, magnetic pickups are out if you go that route but the piezo buzzer R10 pickup still works.

Stoffeltoo

Hope this works
https://www.dropbox.com/s/yps198a5unnsyus/washtub.jpg?dl=0

My idea for a three string wash tub base