Meet the Violin Spaulder, a new alternative to the shoulder rest

Named after a piece of armor designed to protect the shoulder, the spaulder helps violinists mitigate playing-related injuries to their shoulder, neck, and jaw.

A violin spaulder is tied to the back of the violin to help with playing comfortably
The Violin Spaulder, a secure, comfortable, handcrafted alternative to the shoulder rest

$120 usd

or 4 interest-free payments of $30 with Afterpay (available for U. S. Residents)

A secure, comfortable, handcrafted alternative to the shoulder rest.

Details:

  • Saddle-stitched by hand for increased durability

  • Securely tied to the violin (or viola) with suede cord using a square knot

  • Suede patches on both sides minimize sliding

  • Discreet design barely visible while playing

  • The brown is made from Spanish Sheepskin while the black is from Italian Sheepskin. Both are chrome tanned.

  • Made in Houston, TX

These are made to order, so please allow for 2-3 weeks for processing.

Color:
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Discreetly support your instrument with a gentle design that compliments your personal style

Hi, I’m Valeri

I’ve been developing and testing the Spaulder for years with the goal of helping musicians resolve the chronic pain that so frequently accompanies violin practice.

After many prototypes, this design is one of my best tools for playing comfortably and sustainably!

Frequently Asked:

  • This is for players who are keenly interested in preserving the health and comfort of their upper body in their violinistic journey. As we master new techniques, recover from injuries, and even use occupational conditioning to prevent injuries, our bodies adapt to what we put them through. The Spaulder is a tool that adapts to fit both you and the violin.

    Beyond this, two specific kinds of people were kept in mind:

    1. The seasoned performer, who should enjoy a functional and discreet design as they walk on stage.

    2. The young beginner, whose rapid physical growth should be free to develop naturally rather than conforming to a specific shape.

  • Yes! The suede lace will be extra long to accommodate larger instruments and help people practice and learn their square knots.

  • Unlike most craft-store leather cords which are often composed of compressed leather scraps (like particle board), this suede lace is cut directly from chrome-free leather.

  • It depends on where you are! All orders are handmade in Houston, TX, USA. All shipping rates are calculated based on your address at checkout.

  • Rubber bands slip and snap. Further, they wrap around the end button, which isn’t ideal for sound quality. In no way would it be as secure and stable as suede lace (provided you tie it well).

  • Because of its shape and material, the Spaulder will actually conform to your body more than it will to the back of the violin when pressure is applied. This means that the impact of the Spaulder on the sound of your violin will be directly proportional to how closely you hold the back of the violin to your body.

Installation

Instructions are included with your order, but here is a video to help if needed