MIMF

The problem with an inside mold on a guitar is holding the waist in. Fleta came in from violin making, and was used to it, but on a violin the 'c' bouts are held in by the corner blocks. You push the ribs in against the mold as you glue them to the blocks. When I made 'peanut' shaped fiddles I used...

Check this book out. It might turn out to be a fantastic teaching aid. I've suggested that it be added to the MIMF Amazon list, but in the meantime -- https://www.amazon.com/Building-Steel-String-Acoustic-Guitar/dp/1734125616/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3VXOD9YUBN13D&keywords=r.m.+mottola&qid=170086414...

Well, here's the first musical instrument I've made. It's a 5-string electric viola for my music-major daughter. The body and bridge are maple, the fingerboard and tailpiece are Macassar Ebony. I made everything except for the pickup, the tuning pegs, and the chin rest. She wanted a chin rest that ...

Experimenting with different methods and finding what works best for you is all part of the joy of crafting instruments. Best of luck with your future mandolin projects, and I hope this technique continues to serve you well.

Try to mark the spot with a smaller drill bit first then bore it in both sides in the size you need.

Barry Daniels wrote: ↑Wed Nov 29, 2023 10:02 am I think penetrating oil would soak into the neck wood which will soften it over time. I use heat from a soldering iron for this.

I haven't tried that one out but I think it leads to less clean up.

Your explanation about the magnetic circuit in instruments like the Jazz bass sheds light on the intricacies that contribute to the unique humbucking quality. It's a testament to the blend of physics and craftsmanship that goes into creating music.

Regarding the pickguard removal, those stubborn metal pins can be a real challenge. As an amateur mandolin player, I've encountered similar situations with my own instruments. Sometimes, a little patience and a delicate touch go a long way. Have you considered applying a tiny amount of penetrating o...

Do you use press when gluing pickguard?

Wall storing instruments uncovered is not the best option for long term storage. That mandolin really needs a good clean up.

That's fantastic news! It's great that you were able to work with your Octave Mandolin maker to create a custom bridge/saddle that fits your instrument perfectly. The adjustments in width sound like they'll make a significant difference. Best of luck with the Ashton Bailey tailpiece – it's always ex...

Thats too bad Matt, I think wood binding adds such an elegant touch and really makes the guitar look finished. The only times I use plastic any more is if the particular style of the instrument simply calls for it - an ES335 for example or an F5 mandolin. Or possibly if I just can't make the really...

Making acoustic instruments is a goal directed process involving a lot of self discipline. You can make a good guitar just following a plan without much thought past accurate joinery. But even if he only makes one guitar, understanding some of the basic principles of sound production I think would ...

I used the ColorTone Vintage Amber as the base coat of a two color sunburst for a Gibson L-0 copy. Tobacco Brown was my second color. It looked great. I was shocked. The next one will be finished with hand applied color. I watched a video on mandolin sunbursts. The person was a true artist. I'm abou...

[/quote] I certainly agree with what you've said; I have played many instruments over the years clarinet, sax, recorder, french horn, bassoon, baritone, bass trumpet(yep), drums, mandolin, banjo, electric guitar and acoustic guitar. I've played most of these in bands or orchestras. In the last 5 yea...

Steve Sawyer wrote: ↑Mon Feb 08, 2021 10:10 pm

Peter Wilcox wrote: ↑Mon Feb 08, 2021 5:09 pmI haven't used it for any structural applications as I have read there are questions about its long term strength.

Yeah - we'll see how this goes. Of course, at my age, I could begin assuming room temperature long before any issues become evident!

Don't forget the humidity.

F Murtz wrote: ↑Sat Sep 18, 2021 11:33 am I made an electric violin which was basically a single piece of wood and would like to make a fretless (could have painted frets) bass instrument in a similar fashion and I wonder if any one would have a pattern of such a thing

Have you tried looking for patterns on etsy?

In my luthiery journey, Schaller has remained a reliable choice,

Well, here it is on a mandolin that I built and am now gearing up to build a guitar. This one is headed to finishing booth soon. I spoke with some other builders that make Irwin tributes and they all confirmed the key was a tight slot and CA adhesive. I've done three mandolins so far and each one i...

Those fret icons look nice and intricate.