Hi all, contemplating my first real build having done a partscaster a couple of years ago.
Planning a rear route P-Bass (If using nice wood, why hide it behind a pick guard?) and know full well I'll make a couple of mistakes along the way.
Currently looking for a few cheap body and neck blanks to practice build on - any tips on sourcing and suitable materials - I don't really care for these trial builds what the wood looks like - I just want to practice. I would deffo be happy with B-Grade blanks so any hints appreciated.
Thanks,
Paul.
There is not much cheap wood around at the moment, it’s all got very expensive. You could try asking Mark and Carol first but if they have nothing then David Dyke instrument supplies and say you are looking for practice wood. They buy in bulk and cut to order so there might be off cuts you could use. They will cut to size and run through the planer if you ask. What level of woodwork skill do you have.
http://www.luthierssupplies.co.uk
The web site doesn’t take online orders so you have to phone but they are very helpful.
Some people call me a tool, others are less complimentary. Tools being useful things.
Thanks - woodwork skill is moderate - I can hand saw square, comfortable with power tools - made storage cupboards that sort of thing. Mainly functional rather than decorative, but looking to step up and do nice as well now I have retired from the day job. Planning to do a DIY kitchen refresh - plain doors & worktops sort of thing.
Welcome Paul. I'm sure you'll enjoy it here. Bolton is a big place. I'm sure there will be lots of wood merchants in your area who aren't necessarily guitar wood specialist but I'm sure they would have something suitable to practice on.
🙂🎶🎸🙏
🗝️ "Life's what you make it"🗝️
@russ - Thanks, there are a few timber merchants about, but most feel like they are aiming more at the building trade rather than nice stuff. I was planning on dropping in at Axfords at some point - they do list some hardwoods, but no details.
Sounds like you have a higher skill level than most people who start guitar making. I’m sure you will do well. One source might be local joinery firms who used to make wooden windows and doors but have all moved over to upvc. Might be some old hard wood left in store.
Some people call me a tool, others are less complimentary. Tools being useful things.
@cattytown Hey Paul, welcome to the club.
If you want something that is not construction timber and maybe not musical instrument tone wood, try S&S Timber in Blackpool. You will find all kinds of woods there, certainly stuff good enough to make electric guitars. I live near Blackpool and it’s my goto place for any wood related projects, I can highly recommend them.
It’s worth a drive out from Bolton to Blackpool to see what they have and discuss your cutting list. They will be able to help you out with some decent woods.
https://www.sandstimber.co.uk/
Make guitars, not war 🌍✌️🎸
That;'s a dilemma - I'll be in Blackpool on Friday, but I'll have my partner with me...
@cattytown Well Pete, that could be difficult maybe 😆 Best of luck. 👍
Make guitars, not war 🌍✌️🎸