Acoustic Guitar Construction

I finally broke down and built my own mold. I wanted to make a slightly different shape, somewhere in between my OM and my concert model...something a bit more modern looking perhaps. Anyway, I made the mold from MDF, and came up with the bolt through method for keeping the model together. Then I styled the spreaders in the fashion of the LMI ones I've seen. I used some brass bushings in the holes for the knobs to press against. Looks like it will work well...

A few more photos...

Never did like the idea of the LMII mold that does not have defined half/center line. Your design is better from that stand point. A properly bent rim set should and will snap right into the mold. Just my opinion, but I simply don't like the idea of crushing the sides into the mold with a batch of turn buckle loaded or giant cauls, they also limit subsequent processing sequencing options and tend to make procedures more difficult because of obstructions. In my construction methodology rim clamps are for holding rim position not shaping. $.02

Thanks Ken...

I often build things twice, or have to modify them. This may be no different! When I get it finished I'll post the new design I have for my rim sanding fixture. I think the mold posted here will work well for it...but maybe not. We'll see! This is a journey for me...and like I say in my signature block, I'm bumbling through it!

From what you've posted so far I can tell that you are "far" from bumbling. This hobby has so many options and variables -- I believe all of us with interests in this arena have "skill sets" that are works in progress.

Thanks Ken!

I still feel like I'm bumbling through most of this, especially to some of the stuff you guys post. I love this forum for the amount of ideas and good info we have here. Many ways to do almost everything...and I think I find the most difficult and archaic method each time!

TJ I think it is a right fine mold. I do see how the big spreaders might get in your way but once the rims are fit in with end blocks are glued in those will come in and out easily enough I would think