I'ts time to string up #142 and 143, twin Maple & bearclaw Spruce tenors. First we have to attach the bridge. Here it is glued on and braced with my unlikely but effective brace.
Once the glue has set the locations for the string holes are carefully determined and drilled. I insert tiny little plastic circles and drill the holes through them. Then the hole is rounded a bit so the string doesnt have to bend over a sharp edge. I usually use white circles, this time I used black.
The strings are put down the holes, brought out the sound hole, a knot tied in them and then pulled back to be attached to the tuners. Easy and secure way to connect strings. Last thing to do is attach the labels to be seen through the sound hole.
 My new labels designed by my talented grandson Evan Christie. I like em. |  The labels span the back brace so they are cut in two, one piece above the brace the other below. |
This is #142. It is staying here in Bellingham purchased by a friend. It's twin, #143, pictured in the first two photos, is headed to Joe in upper New York as soon as I get a couple of strap buttons installed. I played each of these tenors yesterday alternating between them during an hour &1/2 jam. I loved them both. Powerful, rich, warm and extremely playable. I think bearclaw sitka spruce may add something special in tone because of its different granular patterns.
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These tiger stripe maple ukes are very pretty I think, and I am delighted with their tone when paired with Sitka Spruce. I now have a wonderful supply of "Bearclaw" which only adds to their attraction in my opinion. Maybe improves the tonal results as well.
And here is the start for another Maple/Spruce blonde for Lloyd in California. Wonderful tiger stripe, and look at the bear claw in that fine grained top. Going to be a special one. All book matched.
And here is the rough sawn Honduran Mahogany neck. Now the work begins again.
