Official Luthiers Forum!

Hi All

I have been reading and combing the internet for about 6 months and am ready to jump in. Just a little about me I live in Anchorage AK have for over 20+ years originally from Honolulu HI I got intrested by learning to plink on a guitar
which rekindeled my interest in Ukuleles (last one was a baritone that got crushed ) got a baritone uke and then started looking into building one. First project will be a set of soprano ukes for my daughter and I, probably out of cedar(top)and Sapele (b&s). on such small instruments do you guys radius the top and back or leave them flat? (John?) and any others that build ukes..

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Zac

Anchorage Alaska

Finshed my 1st! See #1 here

Hi Zac, and welcome. I'm not a Uke builder, but there are some great ones here I believe.
Looking forward to your contributions.

Welcome Zack! I'm pretty sure John uses 15' radius' on his backs of his uke's, and the tops are flat. I'm just remembering from a prior conversation with him, but he may have changed things since. I had sold him some custom 15' radius dishes for uke building about a year ago, so that is how I know he does 15' on the backs.

I'm currently building a cigar box uke from the John Mayes DVD. If you are unsure about building, I highly recommend buying his DVD and trying to build a cigar box uke first. It is a great way to gain skills without messing up a fine piece of wood. Good luck!
Tracy

Hi Zac,

Welcome to the forum. I've never built a soprano but am currently working on my thrid uke, a concert size. When I hit a tough spot I ususlly get in contact w/ Bob Gleason at Pegusus Guitars and Ukes. Not only has he been generous with his advice but he also sells uke parts (tuners, strings, bridges, etc.) at great prices.

Good luck with your build and be sure to post pictures here when you're finished.

Roy