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This is for all the people who don't have access to fret wire or who don't have any money.

I'd post pictures, but my cats knocked my camera off my desk and it doesn't work.

It took about a half hour to make the jig and make about 2 frets worth. I used a brass welders bar I bought from a hardware store. It's about the size of fret wire maybe a bit wider. You can do a little filing to narrow the fretwire and make it even.

cheers

billb38583.4501388889

Ingenious, dude. Should there also be a very shallow kerf on the side of the push block to keep the bar from riding up?
Also, is the welders bar durable enough for fret material?

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That is so cool!

Makes me glad to have Stewmac for my fretwire

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Lance@LuthiersForum.com

The wire doesn't really pop up because of the pressure applied. That's a good idea though thanks. I might do that.

Yes it is strong enough for fret wire. It's tough to cut and I heated it to a red hot temperature and it still kept it's shape. I took a fret off a guitar and cut it then filed it, then cut and filed the homemade fret. They were pretty similiar.They might wear down after 20 years or so. You could always substitute with a stronger metal such as steel.

Hey Lance. I'm sure it does. There's an enjoyment that comes from making your own though. The tuning keys will definitely have to be bought.