This build is really moving well. I am very close to beginning the assembly of the instruments.
The butt blocks are made and attached
The fret boards are all made and have their marker dots. They are even tapered to the 1 1/2 inch that I am going to make them at the nut. I have decided since these three ukes are all going to belong to men, they need to be wider at the nut. 1 3/8ths is just too narrow for our fat fingers.
You might also notice that the ebony fretboard has paua abalone dots. I don't usually go in for much bling, but there is something fascinating about that remarkable shell. I thought I would add a little sparkle to this fret board that will be going onto the Indian rosewood uke. The other dots are golden mother of pearl. these are ready for their frets, even have a couple of coats of olive oil already and looking nice and shiny.
You might also notice that the ebony fretboard has paua abalone dots. I don't usually go in for much bling, but there is something fascinating about that remarkable shell. I thought I would add a little sparkle to this fret board that will be going onto the Indian rosewood uke. The other dots are golden mother of pearl. these are ready for their frets, even have a couple of coats of olive oil already and looking nice and shiny.
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The camera does not really catch the magic of this Paua shell, but trust me it is fascinating.
And now to bend the sides- always a scary chore. I started out with the Australian blackwood and a disaster
I just hate it when beautiful wood is wasted, but this baby is for the scrap box
But the next bend went well and I have its mate cooling in the bender just now, hopefull another good bend.
and the best news, The precious Indian Rosewood bent perfectly and is curing in the mold.
I am about ready to start putting these ukes together.
I am about ready to start putting these ukes together.