Acoustic Guitar Construction

Ok, I'm a titebond original guy for almost everything. However, for laminating sides, I've been doing what goes for 'research' these days, which means googling.
So I've been researching and have come across a number of sites, with varying purposes, lauding TB lll as excellent for laminations.

I am going to stick with the original for most things, but I would appreciate any input re: experience with lll.

I suggest you filter the praise to make sure it is not limited to a single layer of veneer over a thick substrate - which is probably the typical use the majority of time. Laminating guitar sides and backs involves several layers of veneer and no stabilizing substrate.

When I went to the Franklin site, they recommended their veneer press version for bent wood applications, which are close to what we would do.

I have just laminated a set of sides together, and I used Titebond I extend...and it seemed to work great. The last set I did was with epoxy...z-poxy to be exact, and the Titebond is MUCH less stressful than using epoxy. This time I also used a vacuum bag for my laminations. I use the Extend version on both my tops and backs too, when gluing to the rims...gives me a bit more open time so I'm less rushed.

Thanks for the information. Do you have any pics of your process?

Sure...

Kind of. I guess I didn't take any pictures of the sides being glued up, but I have a shot of them in the vacuum bag. I profiled, the sides, bent them, and then put the titebond on the outside of the inner-side. I used a rubber squeegee, and got a decent though light layer on. Then i taped the two sides together along the top edge, and then put them on the mold...the model in the bag...turned the vacuum on...and an hour later i pulled them out. Worked well. I'm not sure I know what advantage epoxy would give me over the Titebond, and I have to do another set soon, so if anyone has a good reason to go one over the other, please let me know!

Tj Turner wrote:I have just laminated a set of sides together, and I used Titebond I extend...and it seemed to work great.

I can't remember the guys name, but on another forum a former employer of Franklin used to hang out and according to him, Titebond extend is the 'best' glue that Franklin makes for luthiery. Longer open time, more creep resistance etc.

For laminating, the added open time is a really big stress reliever.