Solid lining install

Solid lining, laminated side, and top thickness graduation are main contributors for determining my guitar sound characteristic. Solid lining is a really time consuming process. Kerfed linings are easily installed using small clips. However, solid lining requires pressing jig and C-clumps for gluing. I spend two days for installing solid linings. I also use 1-piece solid lining for cut-a-way portion. This 1-piece solid lining was cut out from a solid Walnut. Although I spend more than two days for lining assembly, completed side is amazingly strong and rigid without serious weight increase. Solid linings creates crystal clear treble also. Now, sides are ready for closing the box.

Side assemble

I did block making and side assemble. Block need perfect fitting to the mold. I mostly use mini planes to get nice fitting. Then, glue blocks using many clumps. I need quite creative assemble technique to obtain precise assembly the side. Next step is solid lining installation.

Body parts are ready

     This week, I finished all parts making for bodies. I made solid linings made from Spanish ceder (Cedro). I have been using solid linings for five years. This lining requires a lot of time to make; however, the solid lining  makes real difference of sound quality. More focused, clear, and over tones are generated for a guitar with solid linings. Solid linings make sides more strong and rigid with almost no extra weight increase. Cosmetically, solid linings are more beautiful although it sits inside the box.
     I also finished neck and bottom block makings. Neck blocks are also made from Cedro. Cedro is my first choice material for major guitar parts, because the Cedro is light, strong, easy to work, and smells pretty good. Working with Cedro is a really joy for me.Next week, I will assemble all parts to complete the body.

Side laminate

     This week, I have done side laminate works. Laminating side is a fairly common technique both nylon and steel strings guitars these days. My method has nothing new techniques. For me, side should be as hard as possible with minimum weight increase. Using material for side does not have strong influence for creating sound. I could use a spruce for side. However, side material should be a matched material with the back. This is a traditional design standard. Laminating material also does not matter for producing sound character. I usually use darker colored laminate material for lighter colored outer material. This time, I used Pau ferro for Myrtle wood, and Maple for King wood. Side laminate technique is also able to improve material flatness and stability. I am able to minimize a sanding session after the body assembly. Laminated side also does not need to install clack preventing ribs.
     Next step is solid lining and block making. Then, I am able to assemble the body.