These three tenor backs have just received their strip bracing over the center joint. The backs are book matched, thus they must be made in two pieces, carefully glued at the center. To insure the integrity of that joint I always glue a strip brace over the joint. I use pieces of maple veneer cut cross grain so that the grain of the wood crosses the center seam. This thin veneer has no strength beween the grain but it is tough as heck across the grain, Just what we need to strengthen that joint. It is also very light.
 The final touch is adding the label. This very simple hand made label is paying homage to my many years as a watercolor painter. I know that this 300 lb. linen paper is just about indestructible, and I love the color. This is back #45, a custom build. This Koa has wonderful fine, tight curl and will be spectacular when finished. Sides of the same Koa and a top of my wonderful Cedar. I expect it will sing. |  These Orange labels look a little garish out in the open, but when they recede into the cavity of the uke, only seen through the sound hole, they add a brightness and warmth to the instrument. This Claro Walnut uke will have a redwood top. It is #44 and is being built for a fellow in my Ukulele class. I expect it will have a bright and warm voice. The walnut has lots of color variation and figure. I got the wood from Bruce Kreps on Lopez Isl. He sourced in from an orchard in Oregon's Willamette Valley. It should be gorgeous. |  Number 43 will be another in my series of "Blondes" It is built on spec, as all my ukes will be from now on. I really love the look and tone of these "Blondes". Plain jane Koa on back and sides, Englemann Spruce top, Alaska Cedar neck, Honduran Rosewood fretboard and bridge . All pretty simple but lovely colors that contrast and blend, And then it is all set off tastefully with the subtile "bling" of the highly figured Australian Blackwood binding. Wow! I think they are beautiful, and the bonus, after you have played that spruce a while it matures into warmth and subtlety. My "Blonde" #38 has become my favorite instrument. |
