Moving Along To Something That Will Work

An earlier entry hinted at a system I'd been considering for making the curved guitar sides. It didn't fail, really, because I didn't try it. I just decided it probably wouldn't be as dependable a system as I want. Instead, I'm going for this kinda thing, which is closer to a typical style guitar side form.

My original idea for this clamp system was to epoxy the nut to the outer surface of the cross bar, allowing for the bolt to be tightened down through the hole and against the block. I suddenly had one of those moments where you slap yourself on the forehead and say, "duh, that's not the way to do it".

 So I removed the nut from the outer surface and ...

Where did that nut go? How's that bolt supposed to stay in place?

See it? Now I don't have to spend time doing anything to fix the nut in place. When I tighten the bolt down against the block the nut will just push against the cross bar from underneath and create it's own support. It doesn't need much pressure, just enough to keep the layers of veneer in place while the glue dries. I have a similar set up for the inside curves on either side of the guitar, as well as the fiddly bits at the top end on either side of where the neck fits in place.

Not quite sure why this didn't occur to me right from the get-go. I must have been having one of those moments where I over think the process of something, not allowing for the simple answer to come into my head until I've relaxed and looked at things with a clear mind.



The actual block is the larger piece of MDF at the bottom of the image. The smaller block has a bore hole in it, and is glued to the larger block. This provides a nest for the end of the bolt, so nothing moves when I'm fixing in place. I am so looking forward to finally getting the maple veneer laminated up into the curved sides. This is gonna be fun!!

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Here's an update, as of May 19. The side bending form is done.

 Undressed. Blocks and bolts all over the place.





Most of the blocks have a piece of PVC pipe fixed to them, to allow for contours. The one at the back end (you can just see the black square peeking out there) is flat with a piece of plastic over the surface, to avoid glue sticking to it. The black curved piece at the front end is cut from another piece of PVC pipe, having a broader curve for the shape there.

Dressed. All blocks in place, bolts inserted. I just wanted to be sure all of the hardware fit in properly before I actually start with the lamination process. Don't want things in the wrong spot, or wiggling around when it comes time to make those sides.