Luthier/Guitar Builder Information
For some years now I have had the privilege of participating with and contributing to a number of Luthier/Guitar Builder Internet based forums. Before receiving more formal Lutherie education I found that one of the very most productive ways for me to learn a process was to attempt to explain said process to others. My chosen vehicle for this activity was to write tutorials and other... musings and post them on guitar building Internet forums.
As with all things change is inevitable and as I gained more experience with guitar building and repair some of the methods described in my writings are no longer used by me exactly as described or at all. When this is the case I will be sure to mention this in each respective article/tutorial. But be advised Lutherie is not at all a static endeavor and I suspect that the methods that I employ will continue to morph for the rest of my days. That’s what makes it fun... And of course just like with many endeavors there are many, many ways to perform most if not all of the tasks that Luthiers do.
Installing Back Joint Reinforcements
Baking Tops
SIde Reinforcement - Installing Bias Tape
Binding a Guitar
Bridge Removal
Dent Repair (unfinished guitar)
Fretting With Fret Press Arbor
Minor Gap Filling
Go-Bar Deflection
Half Pencil Trick
Hot Hide Glue - Preparation and General Information
Making a Rosette
Rosettes - Installation
Joining Plates - Tape Method
Checking Neck Angle
Fitting a Neck - Neck Angle
Nut Making - Bone
Epoxy Pore Filling
Protective Shields
Side Bending
Truing SIdes Prior to Binding
Fitting Bridges
Flattening The Upper Bout
X-Brace
Disclaimer: Please recognize that Lutherie and woodworking have many inherent risks associated with the tasks that we perform and the tools that we use. Please consider safety as your highest consideration at ALL times. Never use power tools or any potentially dangerous tool such as edge tools when tired, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or simply if something seems... off to you. When in the shop I try to use the “one-strike” rule which tells me that if one thing, perhaps I am tired or taking cold medication is against me no use of dangerous tools or substances for me. Also be sure to wear proper eye and other protection to fit the task at hand. Please be safe!!!