(Click on the pictures for larger versions)
This next stage was the most
frustrating in the whole project.
Cutting a ledge for the binding and decorative purfling lines went fine, using a
router and hand purfling cutter.
But heat bending strips of ebony binding that didn't want to bend led to hours of
sitting by a hot pipe watching pieces snap when they were almost done.
After finally getting them bent into shape it was time to glue the ebony binding to the edges.
Glue and masking tape to get a tight fit.
The hand purfling cutter was very useful for marking the lines before using the router for the binding / purfling ledges and also for cleaning up neatly afterwards.
In fact I did most of the cutting with this tool as it cuts vertically when held against the guitar side.
The Dremel attachment from Stewart MacDonald was useful for cutting the ledges but did tend to tilt a bit, as it rested on the sloping top and back surfaces.
(Click on the pictures for larger versions)
For a lot more detailed information
on binding a guitar I can recommend the Musical
Instrument Makers' Forum.
If you register with the MIMF
(it's free), you will then see the Library of Archived Discussions at the
bottom of the page.
The link is not there if you don't log in.
Home, Sides 1 - 2, Back, Front 1 - 2, Binding, Body, Neck 1 - 2, Neck & Body, Finishing