Hi Guys and Gals.
Here is the way I make my classical bridges.
First I cut the blank to exact width and length and flatten or arch the bottom of the blank and draw two lines to delineate the edges of the tie block:
Then I cut at the lines to the depth of my wings (5/16") on the table saw:
Then I make multiple cuts at that depth to waste away the remaninder of the wood:
Then I use double stick tape to attach the blank to a board so I can keep my hannds clear of the router bit:
I am using my trusty pin router for the next operations,but a table mounted router would also work.
I set the pin router so the saddle slot is 3/16" from the front edge of the bridge-I am using a 3/32" end mill.
Here is a my pin router. It is a 70's vintage Delta with a pedal that raises and lowers the table.They discontinued this machine.I bought it for $400. You can also switch the motor to the bottom and us it as a router table.
Here I am routing the saddle slot:
Next I rout two 1/16" deep slots for the tie block inlay:
Next,I carve the ramp at the back of the saddle,carve the bridge wings and carve the end facets:
Then I sand two pieces of ivory and glue them into their slots:
The last step is to drill the holes for the strings.
I use an adjustable vice on my drill press in order to get the correct angle:
Here is the finished bridge:
