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I have a 1925 Bechstein B serial number 123509. It is equipped with only a short stick. Is there a way in which I can fit a short stick without too much effort? (Yes, I have a saw but would like to be able to revert to the long stick as well) ;-).

If I had a short stick made to the same pattern as the long one, how much shorter should it be please?

The easiest way to change the stick height is to take a dowel or other stick and place it between where the rim and plate come together and the lid. This is actually the way it was done on early instruments like harpsichords. If you finish the dowel the same as the piano, chances are nobody will notice it.

As simple as that! Thank you.

I have just reread my original post. It should have said my piano has only a long stick!

How long is a short stick?

The Piano Supply houses used to sell a metal short prop that would be attached to the long prop which would work while the long prop was in the down position. You would also attach a cup to the under side of the lid where the short prop will sit to hold it in place.

I have an old Schaff Piano Supply catalog which lists:

Lid support cup No. 938
Grand lid support No. 935


And also listed is a Grand Prop that has a short porp built into it. No. 851



Enjoy

Short sticks can be as short as three inches, and as long as a foot. Some pianos have three sticks with those approximate sizes.

I have had one turned out of a piece of beech. I haven't seen it yet but it should be fine.

Ah ! this is really what some factory workers say : long stick is for European market, medium for US market and small for Asian one (add greasy laughing)

Sorry could not resist, that is all kultural

The original may have been a little different, I am unsure, but I am happy to share that piece of universal mankind treasure with you.

Sometimes only a wooden block is required