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When I started down the path to building guitars for a hobby (mid 90's) I remember seeing plywood backs and side for sale and being advertized as a low cost way to start building. They were either in a catalog (most likley) or on the internet. Shortly after I started building my life as I knew it came crashing down around me, divorce, long period of trying to sell a house, apartment life......you probably already know where this is going. I now find myself in a position where I can resume building and would like to check into the plywood I mentioned. If I remember correctly you had 2-3 choices of veneers, EI rosewood was one. Does anyone recall seeing this as well? I know I'm not crazy but I can't seem to find it now (and I'm pretty handy with internet search functions). Perhaps they aren't available anymore? I have solid backs and sides to work with but would rather "re-cut" my teeth on some inexpensive stuff first. Any help pointing me in the right direction would be appreciated. Has anyone used these?

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Gravity, its not just a good idea.....its the LAW! (the poster formerly known as Sparticus)

On ebay they have all sorts of ply- back/sides for really cheap. I think the backs are like $6 or so. You can check a ebay seller named Bezdez too. They usually have all sort of old wood for cheap.

Joe

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Joe

Life has a way of happening to us doesn't it.

What do you consider "inexpensive"? I know you can get student grade East Indian Rosewood b/s set from Allied for $34 ($17 for the sides, $17 for the back). It's nice wood and will make a good guitar for a first. And it's NOT plywood which my guess would be only slightly less $$, but by how much?

You may also check with some of the sponsors here to see what they have in their mix and match bins, you might be able to use some good wood that doesn't totally match perfectly.

To your question though, I don't know where one would find b/s sets in plywood.

Welcome back.

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John Hall of Blues Creek, one of our sponsors, can get you some laminated back and side sets manufactured by Martin. My first guitar was a kit, with the parts gathered by John, most of which were from Martin, including laminated back and sides. By all accounts the guitar made from those parts has a fine sound and was less expensive than if made from top quality solid wood. On the other hand, as Rod has pointed out, you can make excellent guitars from student grade parts.

+1 to spending a few extra dollars to get solid wood. There's no way I'd spend that many hours to build a plywood guitar.

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Jeremy Douglas

Welcome to the forum. Might try starting a new thread, but label the subject relative to the content, (veneer wood options, or help with laminated wood you'll likely get more hits.

Again welcome! You'll get lotsa help here.

Dude...I'm with Jeremy....

Why spend so many hours making a guitar....only to make a plywood guitar. But then again....everyone must have a budget. Pay attention to your wallet man!!!!....your wife most likely will not!...

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There is no difference between the man that thinks he can....and the man that thinks he cannot.

Thanks for all the replies guys its very much appreciated. Thanks for the link Rod True, I can live with those prices for the first few guitars now that I am back.

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Gravity, its not just a good idea.....its the LAW! (the poster formerly known as Sparticus)