How to properly apply Dimo on the Dizi

The Dimo is a very unique part of the Chinese flute – dizi.

It is the thing that gives the Dizi its unique bright and clear tone, to make it sound distinct from other flutes.

However, pasting the Dimo on the Dizi is not as straightforward as just cutting it and sticking it on the hole.

There are certain things to take note of in order to get the best tone out of the Dizi.

If it is pasted too loosely, you cannot get a sound.

If it is pasted too tightly, the tone that comes out will be dull.

Below are 4 steps on how to properly paste the Dimo on your Dizi:

Things that you need:
– Pack of Dimo
– Scissors
– Er jiao *

*Paper glue or garlic can be used temporarily as last resort if Erjiao is unavailable.

Step 1:
Cut open a Dimo (they come in tubes) and cut out a piece that is big enough to cover the Dimo hole

Step 2:
Wet the outside of the Dimo hole and rub some Erjiao / adhesive on the outside of the Dimo hole. This is to stick the Dimo onto the Dizi. In the event that Erjiao is unavailable, you can use garlic (vampires beware!) or paper glue as a temporary solution.

Step 3:
Take the piece of Dimo and prepare to stick on the Dimo hole. Make sure the lines on the Dimo is parallel to the length of the Dizi. After you stick the Dimo onto the Dizi, adjust the Dimo in such a way that you form creases / wrinkles perpendicular to the length of the Dizi.

Step 4:
Play the Dizi and tap on the Dimo to adjust the tension of the Dimo.

Here’s a video we did explaining the whole process:

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Pasting the Dimo requires a bit of practice and patience. If you are not able to get it the first time, try and try again. If all else fails, use any tape for the time being just so that you can get on with your practice.

If you need any Dimo, please click here to visit our webstore.
If you need new Dizis, click here to buy some really good ones.