For me, carving the necks to shape is the most pleasant part of making a uke. If the neck ain't right, the uke ain't right. Shaping those necks continues to be a challenge. I love the look of the "hook" at the base, I am fascinated by developing the shape with the best "feel". I think I am getting close to what I think that feel should be so each new neck is a challenge. Here is a series of today's work on a neck. Enjoy!
 It begins with sawing the slots for the sides |  Now carving with the big chisel to the rough dimensions. This chisel is very old, and very sharp. A terrific piece of steel |  I bought this wonderful tool at an estate sale in England years ago. I think JD Kiers would enjoy knowing it was still in use and appreciated |  The carving will continue using a variety of blades from my rather extensive kit of carving tools. |
 At this stage the neck is roughed in pretty well |  Some of those curves are best done with a curved blade such as those used by Northcoast Indian carvers. |  The "hook" is pretty well established now. It is time to work up the neck. |  A rounded small fine tooth rasp is perfect for cleaning up. This is all I will do until the fretboard is glued on and final shaping and sanding can be done. |
