Official Luthiers Forum!

A while ago I posted about mesquite back and side sets a frind was going to cut up for me--he is sending a set next week for me to try and said he has about 7 more sets from the same board. Anyone have any advice as to what to look for when the set comes in order to evaluate it. I can look for the obvious defects, but I don't have too much experience with guitar wood.
Scott

I think you should look for grain patterns. I would hope it has more or less quartered grain that is reasonably straight. A curl is not a problem, a burl might not be stable enough for back and side construction. (At least that is how conventional wisdom has it, you could go out on a limb, be adventuresome and try something burlish) It may not be dry and that is probably the most important factor.

There are other considerations but I can't think of what they are at the moment.

John

I was told the figure is pretty much straight--when bookmatched the back forms a pear shape in grain--no burl or birdseye stuff. It is quartersawn too. It is mostly dry, but I will sticker it for a while.

Mesquite is one wood I'm inclined to think a bit of burl in the back isn't a problem. It's one of the most stable woods I've had around the shop and the burl structure is really (can be) high in fiber integrity. Of course it's not all created equal so proper selection is still important.

Never seen a mesquite guitar....does anyone have pics of one?
Would love to see it

_________________
Peter M.
Cornerstone Guitars
http://www.cornerstoneukes.com

I am really interested in seeing these sets, What species or variety of Mesquite (maybe there is only one) is this? The Mesquite I have seen throughout Central and West Texas can be a bit knarley and trunk diameter is usually pretty small. It is considered a pest tree to Ranchers and alot of them spray to kill it a couple of times a year. Very envasive and multiplies rapidly in open country. I likewise have never seen a mesquite guitar, hopefully someone has some pics. It is very pretty wood, we cook with it, really nice aroma and adds good flavor to meats.

Mike
White Oak, Texas