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Hi guys
I have a nice pair of figured walnut sides I have just bent into an 'OM' shape. I'm waiting to join these sides but unfortunately I don't have any headblocks. I do have some mahogany neck wood that I can cut.
The neck wood is not deep enough to cut the headblock so that the grain is running in the same direction as the sides.
My question is this:
Is it really important for the grain to run in the same direction as the sides? If so, If I join two bits together to create the right depth would this create a weakness in the headblock which might become a problem later on?
I always use a bolt on neck. I don't know if this makes a difference.
I hope these aren't stupid questions. I used to buy all of my head/tailblocks pre made but now I like to do all of the work myself.
Thanks for your help.

The grain should go the same direction as the sides. Otherwise, either or the top and back or the sides would be glued to the end grain of the block.

Appearence is the only reason why a 2 piece neck block might be problematic. Any glue joint should be as strong or stronger than solid wood.

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Thanks Kent