View Full Version : First build sehy #1
bulldog
Sep-06-2007, 2:14pm
Well,
after starting out with a Stew-Mac F-5 kit (still not done) I got the itch to try a scratch build. So, I started on an A-5 oval hole using "so-so" woods I happened to have. Its ready for finish, so heres a few pics before its finished. Theres some color In the top, but thats going to get shaded over. Not perfect by any means but im fairly satisfied. #2 will also be an A-5 but this time with F holes, Engelman and quilted maple back, sides, and neck. Thanks to all the builders for advice/answers on the builders forum.
bulldog
Sep-06-2007, 2:17pm
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bulldog
Sep-06-2007, 2:19pm
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Sep-06-2007, 2:20pm
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bulldog
Sep-06-2007, 2:40pm
Probably should have posted this in the "mandolins in Progress" Section. Please move if needed, thanks.
bulldog
Sep-07-2007, 2:25pm
No comments? Is it that Bad???
No -just jealous.
Looks great. One day I have to try a tackle one
Eric F.
Sep-07-2007, 2:34pm
Hey, it looks good to me! I'll be interested to see it after you've finished it. Congratulations.
Dan Voight
Sep-07-2007, 3:08pm
Not bad at all. How does she sound?
Domhnall
Sep-07-2007, 3:12pm
Very nice, you are more brave than I, my first attempt at building a mando will be an A-style flat top.
Mario Proulx
Sep-07-2007, 6:54pm
Very nice indeed' look forward to seeing that one piece back with finish on it!
Fliss
Sep-08-2007, 12:41am
I think that looks sweet! What kind of finish are you going for?
Fliss
bulldog
Sep-08-2007, 10:08am
Thanks for the comments. I havent strung it up yet. It will be strung up after its finished with a light semi-gloss lacquer finish. I opted not to string it up in the white, because I honestly have no idea what to do to an oval hole mandolin to improve the tone while its still in the white (ie. sand here, there, etc, enlarge the hole?) So, it will be what it is, and hope for the best! It is a one piece back (Ohio hard maple) with a one piece engelman top. Transverse Braced. A little small at the nut (first oops) measuring around 1.08 inches. Ive read many old Gibsons were 1 1/8 inches and found one Loar F-4 at 1 1/16. So I guess Im still OK. Standard Bridge with Allen Tailpiece, Grovers and bone nut.
bulldog
Sep-08-2007, 10:14am
Rosewood Bindings.
bulldog
Nov-08-2007, 7:38pm
Just finished setting up #1, heres a few pics. The finish was done by my friend Bill Bonanzinga of Bonanzinga Guitars.
bulldog
Nov-08-2007, 7:39pm
Back, one-piece curly maple
bulldog
Nov-08-2007, 7:40pm
Headstock
Daniel1975
Nov-08-2007, 7:44pm
I like it. Good job... Bill too. I would like to hear some some clips? Regardless, let us know what it sounds like.
billhay4
Nov-08-2007, 8:11pm
Very nice #1. Mine was a dog. One that doesn't bark.
Bill
Steve Cantrell
Nov-08-2007, 9:13pm
Man, do I want an oval hole. Excellent job.
bulldog
Nov-08-2007, 9:35pm
I was very surprised at how this sounds. It is very loud, with very, very good sustain. It is very much an oval hole sound, perfect for Celtic music, which is what I built it for. It plays very easy, needs a very light touch. and the sound seems to almost jump out of it. I have a 1924 Gibson AJr, and this is not far from it. Never the same, but close. The next one is under way, but will be Engelman Spruce and Quilted maple.
That looks great, and from your description of the sound and responsiveness I think you have a winner there - congratulations!
Fliss