Previously posted under "Return of the Thistle" I have been making slow progress. Main problem was the hand cut dovetail neck joint which is now complete and done with very sharp chisels, a digital micrometer and a lot of nerve. Binding also done and heading into the finishing thought process.
Here are some update pics for your amusement.
You were right Mark. Side dots only. Frets next. Been experimenting with water based dyes on scraps from the original body wedges but don't think the maple will "pop" like the really flamed guitars do. So. To stain or not to stain. What colour? M Taylor said green. GREEN ???? All opinions welcome.
Trying to make a living out of a hobby doesn't work 🙂
Fine work. Would love to play it when finished.
Rockers don’t get it. Green or red for a jazz guitar! Nah.
Are you going for a neck floating pickup or leave it acoustic? Guild have reissued the classic DeArmond although it’s made in China probably.
I have finished the lacquer application and now have to wait for it to harden up before the final finish/polish process so I have started on the electrics. I'm using Schatten volume and tone controls with the KA pickup and having fun trying to understand two different wiring diagram. Not so much "watch this space" as "listen carefully". I suppose I'll have to wait for the strings before I know if it's correct.
As in the Rolling Stones song "It's all over now". A year has passed and what have I got to show for it. Thisle 2 the archtop. All nicely polished and strung. Still got the fine intonation to do once it has settled down but it is now ready to play. I wonder what it sounds like.
Thanks to Martin Taylor for the initial idea (instruction) and to Mark and Carol at Bailey Guitars for the help and encouragement.
If you want to annoy Mark, tell him to do an archtop build course. As if he is not busy enough.
- A touch of Amber on the back and sides? Vintage-tastic!
Well done John - well impressive indeed! It was a pleasure to help but I think you didn't need a lot from me - top job - massive chunk of HERO points duly awarded...
Archtop course has been 'on the list' since before you started as you know but who knows? The way things are going right now looks like I might have more time 'self isolating' in the workshop might actually get to catch up on a few things...
Measure twice, cut once...
I have been off line for a while but am still alive and kicking. I refinished the face of the acoustic to get rid of a crazing effect and bothe are sounding good despite my playing abilities. As posted elsewhere, Martin Taylor asked me to take them up to his studio and "we'll record them". !!!!!!!!
He did the playing and I sat quietly in a corner. I will see if I cam post the video on this site but it might be a bit big.
PS. I have a thought for a new project using some of the elm (remember it Mark) from my house in Maybole. at the thinking stage just now.
regards. John McM
@jmcmi93888 That build is just stunning..👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I have too many guitars...said no one in the world..ever!
Brilliant build it must be good if Martin Taylor wanted to play it.
Some people call me a tool, others are less complimentary. Tools being useful things.
Absolutely amazing! I saw Martin playing with Stephane Grappelli at the Cambridge folk festival when I was about 19 (I am now 56!) and then in Birmingham about 7 years later. Such an amazing musician, you are very lucky to have this connection with him, such a great guitarist.