I'm planning out my first fiddle build. My son started playing violin and it's inspired me. I'm using purpleheart laminated with maple for the neck. I already have my accessories, tail, pegs, chin rest, strings, bridge, even fine tuners. I'm hoping to be able carve out a scroll and pocket out of my laminate. I was going to use Mexican Ebony for the fingerboard but I think I want to show off the neck more. That should make the radius easier to deal with.

I'm planning to use the layout method LaFave outlined and I've picked out a Padron box that I'll probably strip and refinish to go with the purpleheart. Tung oil on the neck will make the grain pop and deepen the color nicely.

I'll probably use the Ebony for bridges and nuts on other builds.

Any suggestions on carving out the scroll and pocket? That's the part that has me most intimidated. I've never carved much in the first place, now I'm taking on hardwood and intricate work. I imagine my Dremel will be heavily involved.