Acoustic Guitar Construction

I found this process interesting. These pics were taken from Frets.com (Frank Ford's site) on a Tacoma guitar factory tour. It shows how to locate the braces onto the kerfing top using chalk (I like chalk).

Seems that method lacks precision? I like the idea of marking the exact edge locations -- may just be me?

http://www.kennethmichaelguitars.com/gl ... rsion.html

kencierp wrote:Seems that method lacks precision? I like the idea of marking the exact edge locations -- may just be me?

http://www.kennethmichaelguitars.com/gl ... rsion.html

I wouldn't disagree with that but it might be interesting to test it out by comparing both methods on a few builds to see then if found to be accurate it sure looks easier. I wouldn't rely on it otherwise.

I forget which factory tour it was (you tube) but I was taken by the fact that when vacuum clamping the x-braces, there were thin plastic slots into which the brace ends must fit - no exceptions, different for each model naturally. So if one could ensure that the x-brace placement is exactly like the template/plans being used, one could simply put the rim onto the template and mark the location of the brace ends, and cut the notch. Guaranteed fit. I've been thinking of modifying one of Ken Cierp's templates by gluing popsicle stick or something like that alongside the brace lines, then marking the kerfing where the braces WILL be located, covering everything with packing tape and vacuuming or clamping the braces inside the sticks. Should be easy?

It will be easy Dave but you must have repeatable precision throughout the process of assembly. Then you can make cookie cutter guitars like Taylor and Martin, etc. Of course I'm funnin here. It would be a great thing to have, a template to use for the placement of the braces, that could then be laid on the rims to mark off the slots. I wonder if "Luthier Supplies" makes one? It probably wouldn't be too difficult to make one and make it work.

Kevin

You're right, Kevin - I'd hate to get known for consistency :-)

It would be easier to use a template that is bigger than the sound board or back will be. Like a halo around the plate. Taylor was the producer of the video in question btw. I have never enjoyed marking the brace locations on the rim. One tiny slip of the plate and everything is messed up. Using a template would make things easily repeatable.