restoration repair creation
I’ve finished two ukeleles and they are available now. One is padauk back and sides and top, ebony bindings, bridge and fingerboard. A crisp clear sound, somewhat softer probably due to the hard wood used for the top. The other is mahogany back sides and tip with rosewood bindings and bridge. This one has a louder sound although is currently only set up with friction tuners. These are beautiful instruments, i’ve really enjoyed creating them and playing them. Message me if you’re interested.
Gradually, gradually. The right file. So much easier to take a little more away than to put it back.
I just added the pick guard. Now this guitar needs to be played to vibrate every molecule of wood. It sounds sweet now but a bit raw, an edge that will smooth over as it settles in.
It takes time to do it right. It takes a lot of time to figure out how to do it right! It’s looking good in the shop with #8 nearing completion with some revamping of the fingerboard. I’ll be gluing the bridge down, attaching the neck and doing the fretwork over the next week or so. #7 and 8 are OM style, walnut B&S that punch out plenty of bass while ringing out the high tones. There’s nothing like the moment of first stringing up a guitar and bringing it to life!
When planed. ebony reveals itself with fine curls of dark wood spilling onto the floor. The surface remaining is smooth and hard, resonant and bright. It polishes to a shine and becomes the fingerboard that music emerges from.