Shop Tour

I'm just gettting started with this page and will continue to update it over time....

Here's the shop.

This neck sanding jig (the concept came from Charles Fox) is a great example of my approach to building. I use this jig so I can quickly shape a neck with precision and repeatablility, yet it is low tech and very flexible. To change the shape of the neck, I just need to make new guides at each end. High tech, computer controlled machines are great for production work but simple jigs can often produce the same precision with added flexibility. This approach to tooling often allows me to easily customize parts to suit a client's needs and do it with the same precision and speed as with my standard designs.

Here's a look at my linings and side braces. I use solid wood linings as I have found them to increase the stiffness and stability of the sides. This makes a stronger guitar and also seems to add a bit to the projection. The side braces also stiffen the sides while providing extra protection against splits should the guitar get dropped or receive some other unfortunate damage. The side braces run all the way under the linings to avoid the typical stress concentration that results from braces that are simply butted to the linings.

Here's my home made pin router. The pin in the table under the bit and the use of precision bearings allows this tool to be used for very accurate pattern cutting. I use this for cutting out tops and backs, cutting rosette channels, headstock overlays and inlays, and many other operations.