Hello everyone. Here's a prototype carbon fiber mandolin I just finished. I think it came out great, considering I have no idea what I am doing when it comes to composites. There are some obvious flaws in this instrument, but I have learned the value of not worrying about aesthetics on a prototype.
I was concerned that it would feel cheap and plasticky, but once I got some varnish on it, it just felt like a mandolin. It sounds better than I had any right to expect it to sound.
The top is simple, with the reinforcement layers arranged so there is no need for bracing. The resulting top plate tapped and sounded a lot like a wood plate.
It is loud and responsive in tone. I think it is one of the best mandolins I've made to date.
The manufacturing process is surprisingly simple. There's a top and there's a back. You put 'em together. You get a mandolin. More luthiers should work with carbon fiber. It is a very inspiring material.
Will try to record a sound sample once the boys are in bed.
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