Process images: Jason Stanard's first ever musical instrument - an F5 mandolin [Pictures] - created 07-16-2007

Stanard, Jason - 07/16/2007.14:34:07

I hope you all don't mind a little boasting. This is my first ever musical instrument and I am rather proud of it (mistakes and all).

I followed Siminoff's book pretty closely deviating only to compensate for my small mistakes or for cosmetics. I decided to build this mandolin since I badly wanted an upgrade from my $100 beginner's A5 style mando but couldn't justify the expense of a new custom mando (since I'm not a very skilled player). I'm handy in the shop and had most of the necessary tools so I gave it a shot. I think it turned out well. It certainly sounds great (even when I play it). The top is Engelman, back/sides maple, appointments are ebony.

2nd try on the photo...

The scroll could have been better.

I only bound the front...mainly because I was afraid to press my luck. do you think it looks awkward with only the front bound?

Great job on a first instrument! Beautiful stain/color job on the back and sides.

Ya-hoo! Scrolls and points on a first instrument! Great stuff!

You are doing incredible work for a set of first instruments.

Thanks, guys.

Deb, the stain is powdered RIT fabric dye mixed in alcohol. The mandolin is two years old now and so far the stain has remained colorfast. Unfortunately, it doesn't spend much time out of the case these days. Maybe that's a contributing factor?

It's a pretty cool first instrument, Jason. I like it.

#1?!? Oy!

Yowza. Impressive. Very, very impressive.

Note to self: build F5 mando. So pretty.

Excellent job!

I like it!!