Bowl Back Mandolin needing some TLC

[Michael Kinch]

I have an old bowl back mandolin that I haven't played in a while. I took it out today and played it. Around the edges of the front of the body it is starting to break away and feels a bit rough. Is there anything that I can put around the edges to smooth it out and prevent it from breaking up further?

[Nevin]

Pictures would be a help. It could be as. simple as a section of binding that has degraded over time or the top separating from the bowl.

[rickbella]

I would suggest bringing it to a qualified luthier who can assess the damage and suggest a repair.

[Michael Kinch]

Pictures would be a help. It could be as. simple as a section of binding that has degraded over time or the top separating from the bowl.

Thanks. Here is a picture.

[Nevin]

That does look like the binding needs to be replaced.

[MikeEdgerton]

It appears the binding is rotting. Monetary value-wise the repair might cost more than the mandolin is worth. If it's a family heirloom then the cost might not be an issue. You're going to need an experienced luthier that is willing to take that project on.

[Michael Kinch]

It appears the binding is rotting. Monetary value-wise the repair might cost more than the mandolin is worth. If it's a family heirloom then the cost might not be an issue. You're going to need an experienced luthier that is willing to take that project on.

Thanks Mike. I agree. I think the repair would be more than what it is worth. I might try putting some glue around the parts that are the worst to see if that will hold it together. Otherwise will probably discard this mandolin.

[MikeEdgerton]

Thanks Mike. I agree. I think the repair would be more than what it is worth. I might try putting some glue around the parts that are the worst to see if that will hold it together. Otherwise will probably discard this mandolin.

I'll note that the inside of Willie Nelson's famous guitar Trigger is covered with epoxy that his guitar guy uses to keep it in one piece. Good luck with it

[Greg Mirken]

Thin cyanoacrylate glue wicked into those fissures will at least slow down the crumbling celluloid. Nothing will stop it, though.

[pops1]

Thin cyanoacrylate glue wicked into those fissures will at least slow down the crumbling celluloid. Nothing will stop it, though.

I agree with Greg, I slowed down an old Gibson pickguard with cyanoacrylate and it lasted for 10 or so years. Yours is more advanced, but it should slow it down.