I recently purchased a mandolin online that was advertised as "for decor only". It was in pretty rough shape, large cracks on the front and back, missing tuner keys, missing bridge, a mess of a finish, etc. The inside was stamped with the date JUL 1941 and has the shape of a Kay-like instrument. I decided I was going to see what I could do to bring it back to life.
Here's what I did....
Stripped the old finish
Removed old top (saved to make a clock for my workshop…)
Replaced kerfed linings
Repaired crack on the back
Repaired back bracing
New Sitka spruce top with X bracing
New Black walnut pick guard
New Golden Age brass tuners
Laminated ebony face on the peg head
Mother of pearl nut
Fabricated Ebony bridge
Stained back, sides, neck and head with espresso stain
Finished with Satin lacquer
Reused original tail piece
Any ideas about what brand this is?
I still need to adjust nut and bridge slots, but right now it sounds pretty good...has lots of sustain.
Before and after photos...
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