Official Luthiers Forum!

I'm currently building a carved top, and have would like some opinions. First, a couple of pics.





My question is, should i leave the edges of the very top of the carve so clearly defined, or should I take sandpaper and ease those edges some, so that the carve is not so well defined? I kind of like the well defined look, and will probably go with that. But I just wanted to get other's opinions on this.

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Mike

The only thing nescessary for evil to thrive is for good men to do nothing.

I kinda like leaving the edge on. It helps define the shape and draws attention to the fact that the top is carved. The edge will pop even more with a finish on it. I think if you sanded it down, the overall contours would not show as well.

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I read Emerson on the can. A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds...true...but a consistent reading of Emerson has its uses nevertheless.

StuMusic

If you put a shiny finish on the guitar it will show whatever carving has been done.

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"Act your age, not your shoe size" - Prince

I think leaving the edge looks great, and like Chris said the finish will make the edge play with the light id say leave it.

Id also like to add I love the arcs that carve produced with the maple grains.

Thanks for all of your opinions, guys. I'm gonna go with my first instinct and leave it like it is.



Mdubs, so do I. I got lucky. The wood also has little dark brown streaks or specs all through it. I don't know what they are, but I like those as well. Gives it a little character. Hopefully they pop under finish.

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Mike

The only thing nescessary for evil to thrive is for good men to do nothing.