Mandolins in progress

[Greenmando]

Nice work, bob.
The blue tube is the main cross piece of the Terrco duplicator. I remove the extensions that hold the router and guide when not in use so I have more bench space.
Hi Jim

Could you tell me which model of Terrco duplicator you have?

thanks,
Tom

[Fliss]

Keith

Those Celtic style mandolins look lovely. #

Fliss

[Jim Hilburn]

If the question is did I get the 12" or 24" well I got the 24" thinking bigger was better, but if I had it to do again, I'd get the smaller one.
It takes up less space, is perfect for mandolins, and I suspect it would be stiffer and more accurate. The main tube on mine is nearly 5' long and that allows one end to get ahead of the other more easily than the smaller version. That's only a problem if you try to do something like the neck, but really doesn't effect carving the plates.
But if you have any thoughts of doing a guitar, you would want this larger unit.

[Gail Hester]

Here's a picture of the F4 I'm working on with its Virzi (herzi tone seducer).

[Gail Hester]

...and from the bottom.

[JEStanek]

Can't wait for a report on how that one sounds, Gail.
Jamie

[Antlurz]

Is the two legged support also glued/touching the enter section of the virzi?

It seems that positioning it in the center, as opposed to out on the end opposite the other support would be self defeating. I'd think it would be a LOT more responsive if it was mounted on both ends instead, so the center was free to move...

Ron

[Gail Hester]

I'm trusting that the folks who invented this thing did the math. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[oldwave maker]

Gail- looks like a dandy bolo tie! Was hoping you'd be the first to do the happy face virzi, I guess its up to me now....
Nat, Tim, and Eric's gom bodies, interesting how men like theirs shaped like women, and women like theirs shaped like lemons:

[JEStanek]

Bill, The grain on Tim's (the middle one) is awesome. Fir?

Jamie

[arbarnhart]

Building a small flat top using the teardrop plan from DonsPlans.com (very much like a Weber Sweet Pea). One simplification in this design is that the neck block is part of the neck. Anyway, here is glue up of the neck to the body:

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e396/arbarnhart/mando_attach_neck.jpg

[Jim Hilburn]

I've been waiting to see this piece of wood with a coat of finish on it.

[Gail Hester]

Bill, you didn't look close enough. I can't take credit for your idea though.

Jim, that's wonderful and I love the binding.

[amowry]

Yikes-- I think it would give me the willies knowing that that face was inside my mando!

[arbarnhart]

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e396/arbarnhart/mando_dry_fit.jpg

Carving braces and dry fitting.

[Brad H]

Waiting to buff these out... it's like watching lacquer dry. Not the greatests pics, it's hard to get them all to smile at once!!!

[Brad H]

Fronts

[Brad H]

Can't wait to see this one finished, I put a little extra in it!

[Brad H]

Inlay

[Brad H]

Oh yeah, check out my website! www.hillmandolins.com

[ronlane3]

Brad, Those all look great, but that one is very nice looking.

[Stanley Cox]

Brad, Those are good looking mandos. I do like the "extra" brown one too. Good work.
Stanley http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mandosmiley.gif

[Gavin Baird]

These are the latest group for 2006...Gavin http://www.sheba.ca/salesinstruments.html

[PaulD]

Those are wonderful, Gavin. I really like the A4s and F4... and than vine inlay is great! What's the difference between the Ostroushko and the other A4s besides the fretboard?

Brad; that peghead overlay & the bound f-holes look very sharp too! That's a lovely bunch o' mandos!

pd

[Gavin Baird]

Paul
The only difference between the Peter Ostroushko Edition and my standard A4 is the Neck and F/B. The neck is a full 1/8" deeper than a normal F style, is a very sharp "V" section . The finger board is a full 1.250" at the nut and is flat. Other than that they are the same...Gavin

[zeke]

Great suff, Jim Bill and Brad. Lov those bound F holes (will have to do that one day, its so dang classy).

Gail, what a hoot! Bill and I had been chatting about that very idea at Wintergrass (BTW, its too bad we didn't get a chance to chat more there, and also to see your "Cliffie". Someday I want to collect all the pix I can of his mandos for a tribute website).

Maybe next week I can throw some stuff up of the latest crop here at Rancho Arachnid.

[kyblue]

Love that sunflower inlay, Gavin. (Traditional is soooooo dull, I love to see people doing different things!)

Paula

[Gavin Baird]

Paula,
Thanks for the confirmation. The "Sun Flower" is the concept of Jim Roberts of the Cafe and the artist is my wife.....Gavin

[arbarnhart]

Fret board on:

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e396/arbarnhart/fret_board_on.jpg

[Darryl Wolfe]

I finally made a little jig for placement of the pickguard bracket

[Darryl Wolfe]

Being used

[Darryl Wolfe]

If it fits mine, it will fit yours

[arbarnhart]

Tweaked my tobacco burst until I was happy with it:

[arbarnhart]

Here is a second one that is "auto-corrected". Reality is somewhere between the two pictures.

BTW, it is a redwood top, so I can't get much lighter.

[Antlurz]

Getting close...

Have you decided how you are going to finish it yet?

Ron

[arbarnhart]

Yeah, I'm gonna get shellaced! http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Amber BullsEye (I checked the date and bought a fresh can). I am going to mix the 3# premix half and half with alcohol and dissolve a little sandarac resin in it (roughly following Frank Ford's directions).

[arbarnhart]

Well, I am still posting to "In Progress" because the nut and bridge aren't really done. The temproary bridge is just a scrap of maple and I don't like the job I did filing and securing the nut (it is only a spacer since I have a zero fret). I played it a while tonight. It sounds pretty good in a guitarish sort of way. It sounds best played hard - it really rings on open chords. Running scales it sounds correct (I cut the fret slots by hand with a shop made jig). First tuning took a while and it required a second tuning shortly afterward, but has kept it since then. I think a "real" bridge will improve the sound some - the trebles are a little muted by the grooved maple bridge. It's going to be a nice travel mando.

[Mandoborg]

There was a thread a while back discussing what people thought was the hardest part of building a mandolin, I was surprised nobody mentioned waiting for the finish to cure !! http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif

Jim Combra

[Mandoborg]

Pics are out of sequence, strung up in the raw.Some nice input/advice from Ludewig,Mowry,and Hamlett on this one.Thanks to ya !!
Jim Combra

[amowry]

Looks great, Jim! I love the purfling.

[Baron Collins-Hill]

and the endpin http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

sorta reminds me of something that might have gone on "Earl the Pearl Monroe" that bill busman made a while back http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

i love the shape, really very smooth

baron

[Ken]

Very nice Jim! Really like the overall design, sound holes and bridge are very nice details.
Ken

[Skip Kelley]

Jim, Cool looking mandolin! What kind of top is that? Keep us posted. Great job!!

[Mandoborg]

Thanks for the kind words !!! I draw a lot of inspiration from this site. I can't take credit for the design, it's based on a Monteleone Baby Grand , F-holes and all. I consider him my generations Loar, and my F style is also based on his Grand Artist. The bridge is made out of some very, very old birds-eye. You can't tell by the terrible pictures , but the saddle is maple as well,with a 3/16 ebony cap.
# The top is a beautiful piece of cedar i got from our own Spruce, and it was a CHUNK of wood that i beleive was a telephone pole or a fence post if i remember correctly. I LOVE the idea or recycled wood.

# #Thanks again folks, i'll post some better pictures when it's done, the back,sides,and neck are a beautiful Trans-Tint green that didn't photograph well this time around.

Jim Combra

[Gibson A5]

My #4 Ukulele size Practice Mandolin about 90% done. Just needs a few more frets, nut, tuner holes drilled and finnish. I might have went a little overboard on the decoration. After three F5 styles, this thing sure was easy to bulid! Fur top and walnut everything else. Purple heart strip down the back. I hope it sounds good or at least Ok. If not it will look good on the shop wall for background.
Bill Pruitt

[Gibson A5]

The Back.
Bill

[Arnt]

Finish is getting there...
Hand rubbed water based dyes, air brushed anilines around the perimeter, shellac finish. It is not as dark as the picture suggests, the wood actually shows through everywhere.

Back:

[Arnt]

Front:

[Arnt]

The whole thing:

[Arnt]

It still needs to be levelled and rubbed out. This is a sprayed shellac finish, and the first time I have tried this method. I'm not sure how it will hold up as the finish is quite thin, but it is quite easy to apply as long as you can avoid runs. I will now let it cure a while before I buff it.

Thanks for looking!

[Darryl Wolfe]

Nice work Arnt. That's my finish method of choice right now too.

[Arnt]

Thanks, Darryl!

That's interesting; how do you think it holds up compared to other finishes?

[Gavin Baird]

Arnt and Darryl,
The problem with shellac that I have found is to insure that the last coat is clean..very clean. What I have found out is that to determine the state of the surface to be re coated AFTER SANDING, is to apply water via a cloth to the part. If the water assumes a continous film it is ok. If it collects into areas due to surface tension, it won't bond. The "melt or burn in" thing depends on an absolute clean surface. This is also true for the process of French Polishing. If you use oil that is not a drying type, this becomes an added problem..G

[Brier]

#4 1/2 way there.
Peter.

[Darryl Wolfe]

good info Gavin. Maybe I've been lucky

[Gavin Baird]

Darryl,
See my edited post re the water thing..This is done after sanding..G

[Skip Kelley]

Brier, awesome looking mandolin! Lets see the back. Nice work on the scroll!!

[Hans]

Got flowerpot?

[Darryl Wolfe]

Nice Hans, some of us weirdos can see a Flamenco dancer with her back to us and a big feather plume for a hat http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[carleshicks]

That is exactly what i was thinking I must be a wierdo

[Brier]

Skip,
Thanks for the kind words, here's the back (Hard rock mable) not bound yet and a little rough...but barks nice.
Peter.

[Chris Baird]

Oh Yeah, that flower pot is sexy.

[Skip Kelley]

Brier, great looking back. That will look awesome with some stain!!!

[Hans]

Hey Darryl, thanks for the input! You on Druuuugs? # http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

You got to stop thinking about that hourglass shape!

Maureen thought the floral part looked like a swan...I'm goin' with that! As with all fresh ideas, it's a work in progress...subject to change.

Wierdos UNTIE!

[sunburst]

Brier, what'll ya take f'r that bench top??

[Hans]

Thanks Chris!
It's just a little too contrived...hope to refine it some. It's too low on the peghead, and needs to be moved up in relation to the tuner posts. Also needs some Gracefullizationing! Sounds like a Kraut word, Ja?
I've always had a problem with the Loar flowerpot between the 3D pot and the flat floral...well, didn't I do just the same. I like the pot, and I like the floral (sort of), oh well...that's why we build the next one, right?

[Gibson A5]

Well I started # 4. It’s still pretty rough at this point. I used some double sided tape and taped some sandpaper to the work bench for another project and got started with this before I removed the paper. I’m going to leave it, it works great for holding tops and backs from moving while I’m working on them. After seeing “Sunburst’s” rim on another post about jigs, with out the scroll cut out in the block, I decided to try that this time. I’ve been afraid on the other mandos that I would break the scroll off the head block when clamping up the rim. This worked slick. This is a “Lefty”. I hope I can find someone to play it when I’m done. I can’t play left handed !
Bill

[Gibson A5]

Neck

[Gibson A5]

Rim

[Gibson A5]

Top

[DryBones]

Lefty here with a bit of MAS curiousity....how much? http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[piknleft]

I'd like to volunteer my services.......I'll even pick up the tab for shipping........I'm here for ya......
Mike http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[oldwave maker]

nekkid ovals for DM, TG, ML, RS

[piknleft]

Nothin' like a chorus line of "nekkid bodies" to get yer 'tention. A5, I love your F5, buuuuuuuuuuut, I'm hopin' Santa Bussman has my Oval ready somewhere 'round Christmas. If not (Bill), my birhtday's in January. And on top of it all, we lefties get a dollar off! Let it snow, let it snow, let it snowwwww. Mike

[Bill Snyder]

Wierdos UNTIE!
I hope that you wierdos are only unitiing you shoes or shop aprons, otherwise it could get kinda ugly around here. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif

[oldwave maker]

DM binding detail- snakewood binding (my first, maybe last!)with green/white/orange irish flag purfling. Desert Ironwood (tesota greggii) burl fretboard

[mandroid]

Bill,
The FromageDolin foto spread ready fo prime time yet?
Wisconsin diaspora is eager to see that one.

[Gail Hester]

I've been putting this part off and now I know why. Hand building a Loar era F4 rosette is the most tedious and time consuming thing I've ever done. This one differs slightly from others I've seen as I removed the black that sandwiched the herringbone so that it would be white/herringbone/white like the originals. The black strips are Ebony; the white is Holly and ivoroid.

[Jonas]

Very beautiful!

I want to make a simple rosette on a planned oval A, but I am wondering, how do you get it to follow the graduation of the soundboard? And where can i get these "rope"-like purflings?

[Gail Hester]

Jonas try this old thread called, "Making a rosette, how to make and install a rosette".

http://www.mandolincafe.net/cgi-bin....83;st=0 (http://www.mandolincafe.net/cgi-bin/ikonboard.cgi?act=ST;f=7;t=21683;st=0)

[Brier]

Wow, nice work Gail!!!
Peter.

[Burner]

Some amazing rosettes on this page Lutes (http://www.lutesandguitars.co.uk/)

[jim simpson]

I'm sorry I didn't photo the rosette that I made for my F4 fake. The hardest part for me was cutting the channel out without messing up too much. Being a black top, I was able to fill a bit here and there. I was happy with the look of my rosette but overall finish was lacking.

[Keith Newell]

Nice work Bill, looks good. I spent the day bending solid ebony binding for a oval hole I am building and a archtop A style. WoW! talk about time consuming and the stress of bending it and getting it to fit perfect in a natural state. I took a break and started binding a F style in tortoise....whew I was very relaxed after that compared to getting the ebony to fit right:)
Keith

[Keith Newell]

Here are three that are keeping me busy. Red Spruce topped oval hole flat top, red spruce archtop somewhat oval hole with different bracing and ebony binding and a Sitka topped modified F style with red maple back and sides.
Keith

[Keith Newell]

The insides.

[Keith Newell]

Close-up of the ebony binding.
Keith

[JEStanek]

Keith, I like the Munch-esqe scream soundhole.

Jamie

[Bill Snyder]

Keith, I like the Munch-esqe scream soundhole.

Jamie
That is exactly what I thought of.

[Keith Newell]

aw common guys, it doesn't look anything like this.

[oldwave maker]

those next 5 stained & sealed, holes in the swiss cheesehead a bit strange, but when done and strung will work, I think:

[sgarrity]

The wood on those looks awesome. Your work never ceases to amaze me.

[Skip Kelley]

Bill, those mandolin are amazing! I need to keep a hankerchief by the computer to wipe off the drool!!!

[Mandoborg]

Being married to a photographer i'd like to comment on the quality of that picture Bill ! Well done , that back-drop makes all the differance in the world ! Was it there for the picture or is it a Photoshop composite ?? Are you finishing those with the Homestead shellac you mentioned quite a few months ago ? I have a feeling one of those is going to sound cheezy..... hey, somebody had to say it !!! Are those holes going to act as your soundholes ?

As always, good job Bill http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif)

Jim Combra

[labraid]

Howdy folks. New baby in the works......

http://www.bfolk.com/ip/35ip5.jpg

[otterly2k]

wow.


wow.
that just takes my breath away.
http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif

[sunburst]

Very impressive, Brian!
If I were to even attempt something like that, and manage to pull it off, if would drive me crazy trying to protect it from damage while building the rest of the mandoln!
I'm almost sorry I saw that...now I'll probably have to try it sometime! It makes me think of Ervin Somogyi.
Beautiful work!

[atetone]

OH MY! Mr. Bussman,,, I do believe that I spotted my quilted back mandolin hanging in that lineup.
Looking really good. Nice color selection,,, I just knew that you were going to come up with a beautiful blend.
I think I am going to be very pleased!
Just make sure that you don't accidentally ship me that cheese model.
That would pretty much be the last straw here on the homefront. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
TG

[red7flag]

Brian, absolutely beautiful work.
Tony

[Antlurz]

Beautiful piece, Brian! I guess that explains your recent absence.

What is the carving made from?

Ron

[Gail Hester]

Keith, Bill, Brian, all wonderful stuff. What a treat this place is.

[oldwave maker]

Jim- that backdrop is a 3 yd piece of purple velvet I use on display tables at festivals, stapled to my drying closet walls. lit with a halogen worklight and fuji e550 flash.
Never met an african-american luthier, but got Tony's quilt back from that big black dude Oby Johnson at GAL years ago, color inspired by a hillburn, 2 coats shellac, 4 of Rolfe's wb varnish so far:

[atetone]

Jeepers Bill! I knew that you really have an eye for colours but that is exactly what I tried to describe to you over the phone and lo and behold,,,, you nailed it.
How do you do that???
Exactly what I wanted and the wood is better than anything I had hoped for.
The funny thing is that when we started on this mando I told you that I didn't really care too too much about the aesthetics, I just wanted a good sounding mandolin. Now I can't believe my good luck.
Looks like I am going to have an absolute stunner.
Great stuff.
I still haven't figured out the pickguard size/shape but I am workind on it. Trying to figure it out.
Take your time Bill,,,no panic,,, I have a belief that you shouldn't rush your mandolin builder or your dentist.
Tony

[oldwave maker]

Tony- guess I'm livin proof that even a blind pig can produce an acorn once in a while.....
DM quilt back came from that big white dude Spruce, hiding in a quarter trunk chunk dated 3/81, hardest tempered quilt I've worked. did the .010 green/white/orange irish flag purfling on the back also, but its too narrow to see easily. Shoulda painted in the alien eyes, but it may yet have to go thru a border patrol checkpoint!

[Keith Miller]

Bill that one is stunning what quilt, wish I had the skill or failing that the money http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
Keith

[french guy]

Bill that is absolutly Wow ...
difficult to present pictures after that , however I do
Here is a mandola I'm building , harchtop , 16" scale
with purfling and violon aspect as I build a mando a couple
of years ago .

[french guy]

Back

[french guy]

the box open

[french guy]

Just to give an idea of the size

[Gibson A5]

Wow, I hate to show my Trash after those two fantastic instruments. Here are a few more pic of my first Lefty (mando #4)in progress.
Bill Pruitt

[Gibson A5]

Another

[Gibson A5]

and another

[Gibson A5]

The last for now.
Bill P.

[Chris Baird]

Hey Bill, You better watch out, you're going to ruin your reputation; those mandos look mighty artistic http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif Nice work!

[Antlurz]

Bill...

The way the quilt pattern follows the profile of that last one is stone freaky.

You ought to make em ALL that way. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

Ron

[van]

Bill...Now this is freaky!

[Dfyngravity]

aliens have returned!

[bluegrassplayer]

I think this is where you guys told me to post my pictures.
This is the binding being glued onto my fretboard.
Is this an acceptable glueing proceedure?

[Jim Rowland]

If it works for you,it's acceptable.
Jim

[martinedwards]

Darned right!!

Inovation is where tradition starts

I've not bound a neck yet, but that looks as good a way as any!!

[M. Montgomery]

I made a "little" progress on my piccolo. #It looks small in front of the mandola.

[buddyellis]

Cross posted from the builder forum.

This is my first build, an IV kit, and I've had it about a month and a half.

I've finally broken down, dissapointed with previous finishing attempts, and gone with a spirit varnish finish and am currently starting to french polish the instrument. Steep learning curve, but its turning out pretty good.

Lessons learned so far:

1. Lint Free Cloth, Lint Free Cloth, Lint Free Cloth.

2. Learning when enough rubbing is enough. It's easy to overdo one area and end up creating alot of work for yourself.

3. Use an adequate amount of oil. I was afraid of using too much. Dont float the thing in it, but a drop or two every time you recharge the muneca with shellac is fine, or whenever it starts sticking.

4. Keep the muneca SPOTLESSLY clean. Any dust that shows up on the face of the thing will either scratch the top or end up embedded in the top, and its a nightmare to get those specks out, as far as I can tell. Any suggestions other than sanding them out lightly, and not letting them get there in the first place?

Did I say Lint free cloth?

Here's how it looks so far:
http://www.buddyellis.com/photos/mandolin_polishing/images/dsc_0180.jpg

More here: Mandolin Polishing (http://www.buddyellis.com/photos/mandolin_polishing/)

[JEStanek]

That looks great! http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif Did you get some stain on the fretboard binding to tone the bright white down or is that jsut reflected color?

Jamie

[buddyellis]

Did you get some stain on the fretboard binding to tone the bright white down or is that jsut reflected color?

Jamie
Thanks!

I'm using a medium-dark amber shellac. Not sure if I intend to scrape them down afterwards, or even it up all around and leave it someone toned down. I think I like the amber binding look, personally, presuming I can get the color even all around.

[Bill Snyder]

Did you get some stain on the fretboard binding to tone the bright white down or is that jsut reflected color?

Jamie
Thanks!

I'm using a medium-dark amber shellac. #Not sure if I intend to scrape them down afterwards, or even it up all around and leave it someone toned down. #I think I like the amber binding look, personally, presuming I can get the color even all around.
You did not shellac the fingerboard did you? http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif

[buddyellis]

You did not shellac the fingerboard did you? http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif
Not purposefully. I got a bit on the very end there, but I'll wipe that off when I'm done with the alcohol. I didn't varnish the neck at all, I'm using oil there for a better neck feel (I despise sticky necks). That it still 'in progress' so there's some cleanup to do.

[oldwave maker]

another ovalhole back, shellac sealed and ready for binding scraping, lotta these reddish bursts goin on, a spring/summer color?:

[testore]

Purdy as ever Bill. You don't mask off the binding first? 3M makes some stuff for pinstriping cars that is available at auto parts stores.LMI also has some stuff from 3M but it's adhesive was a little too week.On an A model it takes about 10 mintutes to apply. Once I tried it I never went back.
Gary

[Jim Hilburn]

I'm just getting this ready for a sunburst. Stay tuned for more.

[ShaneJ]

Holy cow!!!

[c3hammer]

I'm sorry Jim, but you just can't put anything over that. A little honey tint and it's as good as it gets http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

Cheers,
Pete

[Burner]

Nice Jim - I hear it's pretty tough to bend quilted sides like those.

[Kevin K]

Jim, Yeah just a little amber tint. Too pretty to hide any of that. Very nice looking A.

[Jim Hilburn]

The toughest wood to bend for me is the stuff Old Standard supplies with their backs. It's dead quartered and so curly that you can see light through it. This was a breeze in comparison.

[amowry]

I'm glad I'm not the only one has had problems with that wood. I nearly went mad bending the cutaway for an octave made with that stuff. Looks nice, though!

[oldwave maker]

Jim- looks like I need to raid your dumpster again!
Gary- I cut the blue 3m masking tape into 3/16 strips for taping off the binding on the sides, leaving mostly that .060 on the top and back to scrape- do you have a tape thin enough for that?

[JEStanek]

Bill,
I don't know if they still make this stuff in the day and age of desktop publishing but, in 1990-1992 at our school newspaper you could get hairline tape for making boxes around text or advertizement layouts. It cuts very smoothly with an exacto knife and wasn't too sticky (as it is going on plastic it shouldn't be a big deal). I wish I could remember a name brand. My quick google was a bust. Check at a drafting supplies or at your local newpaper...

Jamie

[testore]

Bill,it does come in different sizes but I mask the side first then the top and fold it over. I guess scraping the .06 from the top isn't such a hastle. None of it's fun. Jamie, keep looking. I haven't found the perfect stuff yet. The stuff from auto supply places is spendy and the 3M stuff wasn't tacky enough.

[mandomaniac]

Here is the back of the twin to one I posted under 'Crazy Construction' a bit ago. Waiting to cure out for buffing.
Do blondes really have more fun?
Hope so! Sure shows the bird's eye better....... http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v69/mandomaniac/Mando%20pics/Birdseye%20Build/P5170097.jpg

[Austin Clark]

This one is coming out shortly...

[Austin Clark]

and the back...

[Steve Hinde]

Black A model. In the finishing stages now. Waiting for the rains to stop to get the humidity down for the lacquer. This one has permanent electronics installed with a pre-amp, battery box and piezo sound board transducer.The back has the flame showing very lightly through the black. Hard to get a good picture of it. It is amazing how the binding shows color better when it gets thin.

Steve

[Steve Hinde]

Binding

[Steve Hinde]

Finger board
I put a thin strip of Ebony on the sides to bind the board and hide the fret ends.

[Steve Hinde]

Top body binding and electronics port

[Ted Eschliman]

Here is the back of the twin to one I posted under 'Crazy Construction' a bit ago. Waiting to cure out for buffing.
My favorite shape, Tom, and a stunning piece of wood to boot. Definitley a blonde to snuggle up with...

[mandomaniac]

Thanks Ted,
This blonde might have a bus ticket west pretty soon .... http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
Stay tuned,
Tom

[testore]

Here are three coming up. Gonna try and keep one for MYSELF. From left to right,double bound blonde and tortoise to be,standard top bound sunburst, and a sidebound sunburst for me.

[testore]

Here's a quicky of the blonde and tortoise after the first varnish application.Never done one like this and I'm LOVING it

[c3hammer]

Yeah Gary! Now that's what I've been telling your for years. Hehehehehe http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

Cheers,
Pete

[kyblue]

Gary,

That's awesome. I love the blonde/tortoise combo.

Paula

[testore]

Well she's done now and playing really nice. here are a couple more.Thanks
Gary

[testore]

another

[testore]

last one.

[martinedwards]

some of the free walnut I got last week and a little spruce for a top.

Now I sit back & wait for international postage to bring me t'other bits from stewmac......

binding router cutter, binding, purfling, trussrod, fingerboard, tuners & tailpiece.........

yup, it's a micro dreadnought.....

I suppose that makes it a Corvette?

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e328/gowanedwards/40600105.jpg
http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e328/gowanedwards/40600106.jpg

[PaulD]

Gary,

That's beautiful. That back & side wood is excellent... great work!

pd

[stout1]

Gary,

Do you have a picture of the headstock from the front, straight on? #Looks interesting, but it is tough to see on the angle.

Thanks, Nate

[testore]

Here you go Nate.

[testore]

A little blurry but you get the idea. Thanks for the comments everyone.

[martinedwards]

Progress on the Mandonaught......

All bound (rosewood) and purfled (maple)
http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e328/gowanedwards/40600110.jpg


Neck all shaped too.......

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e328/gowanedwards/40600113.jpg
http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e328/gowanedwards/40600114.jpg

Hopefully tomorrow is cutting the neck pocket & sanding ready for finish.

[martinedwards]

more progress on the mandonaught.....

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e328/gowanedwards/40600116.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e328/gowanedwards/40600122.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e328/gowanedwards/40600127.jpg

[Steve Hinde]

MA#2 Black buffed out and strung up. Playing it a little before final polishing and sending it out.

[Steve Hinde]

Electronics

[Steve Hinde]

The back.

[martinedwards]

All done with the Mandonaught.....
http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e328/gowanedwards/40600131.jpg
http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e328/gowanedwards/40600132.jpg
http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e328/gowanedwards/40600128.jpg

[markishandsome]

Jeez Martin, I can't believe how fast you got that little guy together! I built a similar instrument last year and it took me four months. Looks great too.

[martinedwards]

Ah but I have the pressure of the end of school term next Friday when I get locked out of my workshop for two months!!!!

That's a bit of a motivator!!!!

[testore]

Here's the brother to the blonde and tortoise posted earlier just after color and varnish application

[PaulD]

Just a second... let me go get my sunglasses! Great color Gary!

pd

[testore]

I was a little scared,but the pic is a little too flourescent.I wanted something a little modern looking....think I did it.

[oldwave maker]

like it says on that golf commercial- these guys are good! Eric's gom stained, shellaced, varnished, awaiting rubout

[mandoman15]

the gom awesomei love the FLAME!!!! anymore pics of that one mr. bussman?

[oldwave maker]

Attempt to show recurve, went to its new home in salt lake city before I could shoot more....Tims in white behind:

[oldwave maker]

Shellac sealer coats on Nats dark chocolate and Tims french vanilla goms:

[labraid]

"gifts of the spirit." love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Nine fruits. Thanks revray, something to meditate on while a cutting.........

[revray]

This beautiful carved soundhole is part of the new F4 Brian is building for me. It is based on a design from the Shaker tradition called the "Tree of Life." In this version each of the fruits represents one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit listed by St. Paul in Galatians 5:22. Brian is an amazingly talented artist in addition to his obvious gifts as a luthier. I can't wait for this mandolin to be finished. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mandosmiley.gif

[JEStanek]

That looks really inspirational. That Brian Dean just keeps raising the bar.

Jamie

[otterly2k]

Wowee! Love that tree!~

[mandoman15]

holy cow (pun may or may not be intended)

[otterly2k]

Rev-- willya tell Brian to post some in-progress pics on his website already?!

btw-- when I clicked on your links, my computer read them as Publisher files... I couldn't open them. Can you post them as .jpg files?

[revray]

Sorry about all the confusion. I think I've converted these to jpeg format. So here we go with the latest pictures of my new Brian Dean F4 soon to be residing in the beautiful mountains of Eastern Kentucky otherwise known as God's Country.

[revray]

and the second

[otterly2k]

Thanks, Rev!
That sure is looking fine!
Someday maybe I'll have the $ available to order me one of those...meanwhile, I can vicariously enjoy watching yours come together.

[markishandsome]

So is this going to be one of those fiddle-style jobs with the overhanging edges and inlaid purfling? Way cool.

[revray]

Yes this mandolin will have violin style edges with inlaid purfling, Waverly tuners and Brian's own design floating ebony tailpiece. Haven't quite settled on a finish at the moment but likely something violinish.

[bluegrassplayer]

Here is my first attempt at binding on my IV. I have a little more to go, but it is close enough.

[bluegrassplayer]

Here is the headstock.

[bluegrassplayer]

Here is a preview of what it will look like (still trying to figure out an inlay to go between the string posts):

[Darren Kern]

Micah, nice job. Very good inlay work, is that your first attempt? If so, that's fantastic. My first one was a real challenge. Here's a pic of my #3 which is also an IV kit. I just strung it up about an our ago. The action is a little low but the bridge is almost all the way down, so I'll be able to raise it easily. It sounds even better than my first, which I'm very happy about. I can tell I'm going to have to do some fret levelling, but that's to be expected.

[Darren Kern]

Here's my headstock with my new logo that I'll be using from now on.

EDIT: Yeah, I know the nut fit isn't good, I've got a plastic nut just tack glued in there, as well as a rosewood bridge. I'll be replacing the nut with bone and the bridge with ebony, as soon as I'm done setting them up.

[revray]

Some more pictures of my new Brian Dean F4

[revray]

one more

[revray]

another

[revray]

the last for now

[troika]

That may be the nicest non-traditional headstock I have ever seen. Beautiful Mandolin. Congradulations, give us a review when you get it.

[jim simpson]

I'm having a hard time trying not to covet my neighbors mandolin!

[revray]

More pics of Brian Dean's latest piece of mandolin artistry.

[revray]

Floating ebony tailpiece.

[revray]

Latest pictures from Brian Dean. This bridge is an experimental model based on the bridge of a baroque violin.

[mandoman15]

ooh we need more pictures!!!!

[revray]

Another

[revray]

One more

[otterly2k]

Ray-- it just keeps getting better and better! Shall I assume that the stained bit under the raised fingerboard is the color the whole instrument will eventually be?

[revray]

Yes, Brian stained under the fingerboard extension and is even now finishing up the staining and varnishing.

[cooper4205]

what is wrapped around the tailpiece at the bottom, looks like rope. very cool mandolin, the tailpiece especially

[revray]

This tailpiece which Brian designed is truly a floating tailpiece just like a violin. Not sure what the material he used in the tailpiece fastener is.

[otterly2k]

my guess would be some sort of waxed cord

whatever it is, it's cool.

[revray]

Brian decided his experimental bridge might not be viable in the long run, so he redesigned it to still have a baroque feel but be more stable. Here is a picture. What do you think?

[Brad Weiss]

Here is a picture. What do you think?
What do I think? I think you're having more fun than a barrel of monkeys!! This might not be the mandolin I'd want, but the design, artistry, innovation, and execution of this work are stunning!!

[revray]

Brad, you're correct working with Brian is a blast. He is so creative and willing to try almost anything. His work is superb. I'd say flawless but we all know flawless doesn't exist. You're also right in that Brian's mandolins are not going to be everyone's cup of tea and I think that's OK with him. I have heard a sound file of this mando in the white and I can tell you the tone is wonderful. I am chomping at the bit to play her myself. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mandosmiley.gif

[oldwave maker]

TL GOM on the way out the door, NR C# strung in the white

[markishandsome]

Brian decided his experimental bridge might not be viable in the long run, so he redesigned it to still have a baroque feel but be more stable. Here is a picture. What do you think?




Aw, I thought the little one was way cute, can he do both?

[otterly2k]

I like the longer one...and think it's likely to be better for the top... distributing the pressure a bit more.

[JEStanek]

I like the longer one as well. The other was too.... banjoish. Brian Dean continues to amaze me with where he is taking the instrument.

Jamie

[Ted Eschliman]

"Nice, Bill!" he feigned selfishly knowing his was in the pipeline not too much longer after theirs.
(It's always all about *me*)

[revray]

Latest from Brian Dean. One piece claro walnut back. How sweet it is.
http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[grandmainger]

Here's my latest one, in progress...
http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/157/127/1600/IMG50.jpg
http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
Germain

[revray]

Here is the latest picture from Brian Dean of my new F4. Brian calls it a teaser. I call it torture.

[Jim Garber]

Latest pictures from Brian Dean. This bridge is an experimental model based on the bridge of a baroque violin.
revray:
Please explain the reasoning behind that kind of bridge and the sound you are looking for.

Jim

[revray]

The bridge in question was primarily an attempt to continue the overall violin aesthetic of the instrument. Brian decided the bridge likely wouldn't work and designed another which can be seen in one of the other pictures. This is not intended to be a bluegrass mandolin. What I play is primarily folk, old time, celtic and classical including a lot of church music (I am a Methodist pastor). I am looking for a sound which is sweeter, less edgy, or harsh than a typical bluegrass instrument. From the sound clip Brian sent me of this mando in the white, I think he has achieved that goal.

[revray]

Here are the latest pictures from Brian Dean of my new mando. It just keeps getting better.

[revray]

Another

[otterly2k]

jeepers... what's not to like?!

but I especially like Brian's take on the scroll, and also the fretboard inlays...

[oldwave maker]

the quilt C# is from a plank I got from Spruce with a 9/78 date on it, the color comes from a can of ancient partially evaporated turpentine, the birdseye was brought out to a tin shed in truth or consequences nm in 1980 by a retired snowbird dairyfarmer who cut it on his maine farm in the mid 70's, that one has a bearclaw engelmann old standard top and sides from Spruce's 1880's salvaged birdseye flooring pile, sounds like dark chocolate with medium red chile powder mixed in. the quilt more like milk chocolate with no chile.....
cutting binding channels on yours today Ted!

[Lane Pryce]

Real smooth Bill. Lp

[JEStanek]

Bill,
Your descriptions sound more like a menu than a list of materials. #I'm left wanting mole (sauce at least). #Beautiful.

Jamie

[oldwave maker]

Thanks, I became a luthier because I couldnt find work as a chocolate tester! If Rigel had made an R100 mandocello it might have looked something like dr bob's french polished big blonde bomber, front of that quilt C# for scale:

[Ted Eschliman]

cutting binding channels on yours today Ted!
Sweetness!

[otterly2k]

VERY cool 'cello, Bill!

[oldwave maker]

Still no adult supervision here in oldwave holler! MR 10 string dola with flame redwood top, SP quilt/engelmann ovalhole, TE solocomp engelmann 4 string dola:

[Michael Lewis]

Bill, what's all that green stuff in the background? I thought you lived in New Mexico. You know, dry, desert, dessicated, no humidity, rocks and lizards and thorny vegetation.

[Antlurz]

Hint: He's upside down. Ergo, he's down under in Australia. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

Ron

[oldwave maker]

The closer you get to the spirit river mando vortex, the more they turn tail up and head toward the pole shifting light! After the driest decade in the 2000 yr tree ring record, we've had the wettest august ever, with 6 weeks of wild 5 mile kayaking to the rio grande, and fields of flowers never seen before, interspersed with dying 500 yr old sycamores, strange brew indeed.....

[Antlurz]

Do the wound strings have to be wound in reverse to stay in tune down there?

Ron

[mandoman15]

no but the scrolls surely have to curl counter-clockwise.... http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[mandoman15]

I just got in the first pics of my a-5 in progress from Allen Jones of glenn mandolins. he didn't specify which rim or plate was mine specifically, but at this point i don't mind the looks of either of them... he's been great to work with, luthiers ussually are. i think it has something to do with being cut off from human contact, slaving over tone wood all the time. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[mandoman15]

cant get the pics to the right size. why is this so hard...

[oldwave maker]

Mandoman- if you download googles free photo software 'picasa' you can set any photo to a max side of 550 pix or so, this shot is 550 high x 220 wide.
back of mr 10 string dola with old turp wash, more Spruce 9/78 quilt, 5 on a side grovers made from 2 sets:

[piknleft]

The blossom of a lefty oval flowering somewhere in the Old Wave arbor is starting to keep me awake at nights. Damn Bill, them all be so purty! Mike

[ab4usa]

Mike,

I have a lefty A5 from Bill. As a natural lefty himself he has a warm spot in his heart for us southpaws.

[grandmainger]

cant get the pics to the right size. why is this so hard...
http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif Read my signature! Hope it helps!
Germain

[oldwave maker]

That 10, 8 and 4 string starting the cure, I sure like wood! Thanks Bruce.....

[Ted Eschliman]

That 10, 8 and 4 string starting the cure...
A "cure" for my MAS...

Stunning!

[Duc Vu]

A "cure" for my MAS... Really? or just a temporary salve?http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[berkeleymando]

Bill what is the scale legnth of the ten string dola?

Is it designed for cgdae tuning? Thanks very fine looking mandos there buddy.

[tin ben dur]

Cox#1 First build. Maybe I will be done by this time next year. I want to add virzi. California Redwood. I hope these pics come out nice.

[tin ben dur]

This should be the back. Curly maple maybe.

[tin ben dur]

I have kinda got my cart before my horse. I had to have this case so I bought it before I got my mandolin built.

[jimbob]

who made the case ? Looks nice.

[tin ben dur]

Thanks jimbob. I ordered it from Jeff at GWW. It took awhile to get it but the wait was worth it. It is a very nice case. I guess it is like the vintage ones from long ago. Thanks for the reply.