I continue to have challenges in getting my fretboard radius consistent when I sand it. What I actually mean - I always end up with one "edge" of the fretboard thicker than the other edge. My method is to place the radius sanding block in my vise and move the entire board back and forth over the block. But I'm not consistently staying in the center (I suspect). Thus, ending up with a slight discrepancy on the treble side on the nut end (always...). Here is what happens (sorry for the messy shop, and horrible pics...)
I think the solution is a longer radius sanding block than I have, but looking for some input first!
Thanks!
Hi Jaxty
I always end up with one "edge" of the fretboard thicker than the other edge.
I'm thinking that maybe you should take more time with the sanding, check and compensate more often. Have you tried clamping the neck to your bench, you might have more control using your short block that way.
I’d suggest:
Having the fretboard/neck as the fixed object, and moving the sanding block. Easier to keep stable and straight.
Getting a longer radius sanding block.
Using something as a visual guide to help keep the sanding block centred on the fretboard. I typically stick the fretboard to a base which has a centre line marked on it. I’ve got a centre line marked on the back of my radiusing block. Hence I can see, as I move the block up/down the fretboard, whether it’s staying centred on the fretboard. OK, its only a “by eye” check, but every little helps.
Then you have to focus on applying even pressure over the length of the board as you move the sanding block, ie so you don’t end up with a thin neck-end and a thicker body-end (or vice versa).
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Take measurements regularly (eg. with a vernier caliper) at the 4 corners and at the 12th fret left and right and keep checking if the board is flat with a straight edge. Takes time, but you should be OK!
Measure once, cut straight away and maybe you're lucky......
@jaxty I agree with everything @tv101 @edwin and Robin have said. You should check the measurements constantly and keep reapplying scribbled pencil on the fretboard so you can see where you are sanding more and less. Check, check, check! Oh and check again! It’s a skill that you will develop if you keep making them. 👍
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Thanks all! Basically, use the block on the fretboard, not the fretboard on the block, check center lines, and check measurements often.
Patience is the name of the game. I need to stop seeing people bang out a complete neck in mere hours, and just focus on technique and accuracy!
I resign myself to more detailed sanding then!
Here is another tip. Making radius sanding blocks. If you ever happen to know a drummer that will let you borrow his 12 inch tom drum, great! Disassemble the skins and double side some tape on it, place different grits of sandpaper and sand blocks of wood in different lengths. You get yourself some radius sanding blocks. That way you have several for different grits of sandpaper. Works like a charm. Makes life so much easier not having to change sandpaper grits on your one radius block. I happen to have a drum set and was staring at it one night and had a light bulb moment.