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my first attempt at building a guitar is complete. It was really fun and I cant wait to start my second. This was a truely amateur effort.
Top in Spruce. Back, side, and neck are Mahogony.
I think bending the sides was the most fun. I used a steel pipe heating with a mini flame thrower. Broke the first side and the second came out a little off shape but used it anyway. This was a learning experience after all. I guess this is why the body is a little asymmetrical. It really sounds great which is the true test I guess. ANy commets would be welcome.members.cox.net/sod6706/HPIM1240.JPG
members.cox.net/sod6706/HPIM1238.JPG
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Hey Lamar! I`m also a dedicated amateur although I`ve built 5 and a few banjos. A couple of things I`d suggest. Build a bending machine. Simple and cheap. A little plywood ,some light bulbs , flashing and a plan. Then your sides will come out perfect! Next build in your mold and be sure your mold is symetrical. If you have not done so build a go bar jig for assembling your bracing to the top and back. Once again , simple and cheap. I have experimemted with several ways to glue tops and backs on sides but spool clamps work best for me. Cheap, a 7 or 8" carriage bolt with a piece of 1" dowel on both ends. I drill holes through the mold about 1/2 " back from the inside every 2" all the way around to accomidate the clamps. Use spreaders made from a pair of turnbuckles inside your mold so the sides maintain contact and your next one will be more pleasing to the eye! Have fun and build a bunch!