Measure twice, bend once

[John J]

I see what you guys are talking about. No I didn't radius the neck block, I thought you had to have a flat surface there where the neck joins.
Without rebending the sides the only way I could see to close the neck gap was this method. I had a ton of extra at the tail block because I mis-measured the waist point.

[ken cierp]

I thought you had to have a flat surface there where the neck joins.

Yes you want it flat 1" or so on either side of the upper bout center line to accommodate neck heel fit. That's whats shown in the KMG instructions. But most guitars especially the smaller body styles have gently upper bout contours just like the template you have there.

[John J]

Ok. If I remove the neck block and radius it should I release the kerfed linings as well? If so how far back?
Thanks for the input.

[ken cierp]

I would think the lining has to be removed and you'll need a form fitting caul. Don't over do the radius -- or you can just move on and chalk it up to experience. Its a custom guitar so it can have any shape you want.

[John J]

I think I'll leave it alone. It's definitely not concave, it's more an optical illusion when compared to the template. It's flat for an inch and a half on either side of the centerline before the curve begins.