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Upper transverse graft?
http://w-ww.luthiersforum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=10101&t=15873
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Author:  Chansen [ Wed Feb 13, 2008 2:21 am ]
Post subject:  Upper transverse graft?

I can't seem to figure out what is used for the upper transverse graft. For some it looks to be off-cut from the soundboard (like the back-graft, others it looks like the grain is running the same way as the rest of the bracing. Does it matter? How many builders omit it all together? I am finally going to make another push to get something accomplished on my first build but found I still have plenty of questions. Thanks everyone in advance!

Author:  Laurent Brondel [ Wed Feb 13, 2008 6:15 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Upper transverse graft?

Traditionally it's 4sawn (vertical grain) spruce with the grain running perpendicular from the soundboard, about .125" thick. Some of the older Martins don't have it (its purpose is somewhat unclear as it doesn't prevent the cracks on the soundboard along the FB extension). Many contemporary builders don't use it at all, especially those who use a neck block with a paddle extending under the FB extension.

Author:  Michael Dale Payne [ Wed Feb 13, 2008 9:28 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Upper transverse graft?

The purpose is to prevent soundboard cracking and seperation at and from the edges of the fretboard extension as the neck tries to move with the pull of the string. oops sorry Laurent did not mean to echo ;)

Author:  Chansen [ Wed Feb 13, 2008 11:57 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Upper transverse graft?

Thank you! That answers my question. Actually I had heard mention of "popsicle brace" before but wasn't aware that the UTG was one and the same. I will be getting the top braced this week and if I'm not to horrified by my workmanship I'll post a pic or two for a little critiquing. Should be fun... :shock:

Author:  burbank [ Wed Feb 13, 2008 12:17 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Upper transverse graft?

Hey, Christian, good to hear from you! Are you a dad yet? Or was it in March ?

Author:  Chansen [ Wed Feb 13, 2008 1:14 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Upper transverse graft?

burbank wrote:
Hey, Christian, good to hear from you! Are you a dad yet? Or was it in March ?


She's getting pretty close... March 11th is the due date. My plans of getting this guitar done before the due date were easily pushed aside with all the preparation. Not complaining at all though - this has been a really exciting time for us.

BTW, its a boy and his name is Parker :D You're welcome to check out our family blog if you want at http://www.christiannmelissa.com - it's pretty much baby-oriented to keep family and friends updated.

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