November 30, 2009

I had the honor of taking an inlay class from Rick Davis at Sound Guitar Workshop.  The customer for guitar 905 wants a custom inlay of his baby’s handprint, and I have not yet ventured into the cutting of shell.  The class was an excellent introduction to design, cutting and inlaying.

We itemized the necessary tools and jigs, of which I have procured a jeweler’s saw, 3/0 blades, some “Burr Life” blade lubricant, and have constructed a jig/platform for the cutting of shell.

091130shelljig.jpg

The customer has given me a jpeg with the handprint which I will use as the outline to cut the shell.  I’ve ordered shell blanks which are in transit.

torch-inlay_0.jpg

This torch inlay will be used on the fret board.

headstock_inlay3.jpg

The handprint was turned into an outline on photoshop by good friend Tom.  I will print it, then glue it to the surface of the shell as a guide to saw.