These two are the designs I am using for 2022. There will be five made. I do commissions if you want to reserve a traditional or guitar body style. I’m making them all guitar body styles if I have no commissions for a traditional shape.
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So many projects, so good
Yes, per usual there are violins on the work bench. The main difference is the banjo neck. I don’t do much instrument work for others but it’s a family instrument. So, do the best I can and learn something new, which I am.
Bass bar in progress
It’s so cool to experience the tonal changes that occur when shaping a fitted bass bar. It’s kinda magical to hear the variances. The bass bar, for me, is the last tuning variable on the top. The shape definitely influences the sound and structure.
Top plates go fast, for like a hot minute
Then they come to a screeching halt. I get so focused on cutting the arches and hollowing I forget I still have to do the F holes and then bass bars. I’m thinking “it’s so much easier than maple” and then it I’m thinking “yeah, f holes and bass bars.” It’s all good and all necessary. For me, the top balances out with the back.
Inspect, Inspect, Inspect
I’ve learned I prefer to have more checkpoints and pass each of them instead of going too far and then having to go way back. Basically, measure three times and cut once. At this stage, I’m marking out the top plate.
Even wood workers need metal hammers
Someone designed and cut me a brass hammer head based on a suggestion. Yes! What a turn out. An old wood wheel spoke, which is in good shape, was used as the handle. I don’t use it all the time but every chance I can, I will.