Question about playing while standing

[Ronald Hanes]

Did early banjo players use a strap  to secure the banjo for playing  while standing?

I've looked online at old photos, paintings etc.  I haven't seen any.

[Chris Prieto]

I have a rope on of my gourds but opted for the powder horn straps for added "flare" when out busking.

I do love the idea of some India rubber on the back to help with slippage tho. Gonna give that a try in my next gourd.

[Tom Berghan]

Chris, Try some "Floor Gripper Pad."  http://www.homedepot.com/p/TrafficMASTER-Premium-2-ft-x-4-ft-Non-Sl...

Keeps throw rugs from skidding on wooden floors.  It is very inexpensive and works really really well.  I place a small square of it on my lap when I play my gourd.  I guess one could even attach some of it to the back of a gourd . . . something non invasive and reversible . . . double stick tape maybe? Kid's Rubber Cement?

[Chris Prieto]

Nice, Im making a trip to HD this weekend and will pick some up. actually gonna attempt to finish up a rope tensioned gourd this weekend. I also know a guy who makes repro goods from 19th century and he has India rubber he uses on capes and rain coats which I believe is similar to vulcanized rubber or maybe the same thing. I'm thinking of weaving it in with the tension ropes on bottom half of gourd. should be pretty neat.

[Tom Berghan]

HD = Home Depot