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The figured faces of maple
In my current mandolin build, I’m using 4 different species of “figured” maple. Each one has its own character, but all are so beautiful, they’re a thrill to…
4 min read
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They Have a voice!
This week I strung up the first two mandolins of my current batch “in the white” (with no binding or finish). I’m using a new source of Sitka…
4 min read
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Carving Mandolin Tops
Of all the various parts that go into building a mandolin, the top has the most significant influence on tone quality. If you build it too stiff, the…
4 min read
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Restoring Family Heirlooms
Restoring instruments with family significance brings a real sense of purpose and satisfaction to my repair business. This week I worked on two guitars that belonged to the…
4 min read
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Mandolin Side Bending and Construction
This week I started bending and assembling sides as part of my mandolin build. In the past, I’ve bent each piece individually over a hot copper pipe. As…
4 min read
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A Renaissance Repair
I sometimes receive unusual instruments needing repair, but recently I took on my first Renaissance instrument repair. A local musician brought me his Orpharion, in need of a…
4 min read
What’s On My Bench
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