Before we tune the plates, we will make the neck. The first step is to layout the neck outline on the neck block. We use a template that not only defines the outline but also locates the peg holes and the turns of the scroll. We now use the bandsaw to cut outline and the [...]
The piece of top wood selected for “The Rebecca” is a beautiful piece of split Italian spruce that has been dried for more than 10 years. Because it is split, we are sure that the grain is “on the quarter” and the tone will be optimal. This first step is to join the halves. The [...]
With the purfling in, we finish the outside shape of the back. Using gouges and templates, the rough outline is brought to shape. Then using a very sharp gouge, the sgusciatura (or channel) is cut all around the back. The using finger planes and scrapers, the final shape is formed. With the outside complete, we [...]
With the rib assembly done, we turn our attention to the back. The back is made from some very nice Bosnian maple that was cut approximately 15 years ago. The first step is to plane a perfect joint and join the two pieces. Next we use the rib assembly to trace the outline for the [...]
The first step is to install the blocks and ribs. “The Rebecca” is based on a Strad (the Provigny) pattern. The blocks are willow and glued to the mold. The ribs are planed to a thickness of about 1.2 mm and then bent to shape. Below is a picture of the blocks and the c-ribs [...]
Today we start “The Rebecca”. Below is a picture of the wood I have selected for this violin. There is a nicely flamed piece of Bosnian maple for the back and sides and a very nice piece of split Italian spruce for the top. The linings and blocks will be made from willow. The neck [...]
With the corpus finished, we are ready to make and install a neck. We start with the raw material, a neck block and finger board. We first use a template to trace the shape of the neck on the neck block. We cut out the shape and drill the peg holes. Next we pare away [...]
With all of the pieces done, it is time to put it all together. The first step is to remove the rib assembly from the form and trim the blocks and linings. Next we glue the back on. At this point, I like to clean everything up and apply a very thin coat of propolis [...]
The bass bar is a piece of spruce about 6 mm wide that runs the length of the top underneath the bass foot of the bridge. It provides rigidity for the top and enhances the lower frequencies. Its proper installation is critical to the tone of the instrument. The first step is to cut a [...]
The top is now ready to receive f-holes. The location and size of the f-holes is very critical to the tone and function of the violin. The first step is to accurately locate the holes. After the holes are located, I cut out the holes. Then, using a hand saw I cut out the shape [...]