October 16, 2010

Bracing is underway.  Spruce for the top and mahogany for the back.  Using the table saw, all pieces were cut.  Those needing a radius were preshaped on the belt sander then finished in the radius dishes.  I used the oscillating drum sander to pre shape the end tapers and scallops, then the belt sander to round over.  Each brace is essentially its’ final shape.  I’ll use a chisel to bring each brace down to finish size and shape.

101016backbracing

The go bar clamping system is used to attach braces.  Note the plate is sitting in a radius dish.

101016toplayout

I use an acrylic template to layout my bracing before transferring to the top.

101016gobartop

Fiberglass rods provide plenty of clamping power.  Gloves are employed to avoid fiberglass splinters.

101016topbracing

The sides have been kerfed and radius sanded and are ready for back and top attachment.