Additional ease of response can be assured by filing the inside of the reed with shave grass, always with the reed damp. If all the foregoing instructions have been carefully observed, the reed should now be ready for use. During the first four, five or six days reeds undergo many changes. The blades may spread too far apart or come too close together. Adjustments can readily be made by following the previously given instructions.
Reeds have a tendency to become stronger after the first few days' use.
When this occurs scrape towards the tip of the blades as often as necessary using shave grass. A little wood may also be removed from the sides of the reed. Any accumulation of food particles on the inside of the reed may be removed by using a chicken feather, and if the reed is used a great amount it should be aired out. If by chance, during the gouging process, the cane which now lies near the first ring has remained too thick, the reed will not produce the lower tones on the bassoon freely. The blades will not vibrate freely or respond easily to the breath.