first build

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Alex Shroyer
Posts: 2
Joined: Mon Sep 30, 2024 9:19 am

first build

Post by Alex Shroyer »

This is supposed to be a testbed for a bunch of ideas I want to try, so I'm using primarily pine. Headless, multi-scale, 8-string, trapezoid/asymmetric neck profile, handmade pickups and tuners. Mostly hand tools.
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Here's a video of me testing a tuner prototype with an 0.018 string.

I like to do things the hard way; I feel like that way I can make a bunch of mistakes really quickly and then learn from them for the next try.

Some lessons learned so far:

  • Don't buy fretwire in short lengths unless those lengths evenly divide by your fretboard width.
  • Pipe clamps or bar clamps are overrated; it's not hard to make a long-reach clamp for body glue up with some scrap wood and wedges.
  • A face vise on a proper workbench is not overrated. It's a toss-up between this or a bandsaw when it comes to "most desperately desired tool".
  • Shape the back of the neck after getting the neck pocket and tenon sorted.
JC Whitney
Posts: 216
Joined: Mon Jan 09, 2012 1:19 am

Re: first build

Post by JC Whitney »

Enjoyed your tuner test video - am I guessing right that your long term plan is to have lever(s) perpendicular to the body top?
Jarno Verhoeven
Posts: 76
Joined: Mon Nov 06, 2023 1:06 pm

Re: first build

Post by Jarno Verhoeven »

Interesting testbed!
  • I do not mind short lengths of fretwire if it is not too expensive
  • Pipe clamps are really helpful! A big piece of plywood and some wedges can be used as well, but I definitely like my pipe clamps (I also make furniture, so I sometimes have glue-ups of longer panels).
  • +1 on the face vise, such an enabler, but I am also looking to add an end vise to my bench, as that is helpful when planning small stock
    +1 on the band saw as well, it is a huge asset to the shop, mine is a small but high quality one (Inca 260) which I bought for really little money (50 euros), in super nice condition.
  • Yes :)
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