So just wrapped up my first build and thought I'd post a couple of pics. It's a 4 string with 23.5" string length. My dots are crooked. The head is short. The tuning machines and the string holes are a little out of line, and my strings are a little high. Overall I'm pretty happy with the results. Now if I can figure out how to play it. I haven't played my guitar in 15 years but I can kind of pluck around on the CBG. I've got 4 more boxes just waiting to be built out. So I'll be posting more I'm sure.
One thing I did find was my 2nd string had a little buzz. turns out it was the slot in the nut. The high point was actually in the middle of the slot so it caused the string to actually buzz in the slot. I took the saw and ran it through the slot at a slight angle so it was lower towards the head and higher towards the body. That cleared up my buzz. Something to look at if you are getting a buzz you can't figure out
Ben
Replies
Looks good, liking the tail treatment. Nice
nice looking build and great learning. You can ponder and ask all the questions you want, but it isn't until you start building that you learn.
BTW, the most common new builder error is not allowing enough room in the head stock. A good formula for head stocks is, the number of tuners on one side minus 1, plus two inches, plus any additional for "design"...
so, if you are doing a 4 in line headstock, 4-1=3+2=5, plus ? This is how much you need to allow beyond the nut.
the best,
Wichita Sam
Thanks for the pointer. The sad thing is I actually had 1.5" extra at the top I cut off before setting my tuning machines. It would have been much better if they were a little more spaced out. Next one will be for sure.
Very nice first build, wondering how wide your neck is. I've been planning a 4 string but it looks like the common 1 X 2 might be a little tight...Marcus
Marcus,
A stock 1X2 is perfect for a four stringer, if you like typical electric guitar spacing (you can even get a little wider spacing by crowding the edge of the neck) But, if you want really wide spacing that seems typical for many slide players, then you're probably right.
the best,
Wichita Sam
I don't mind crowding the top and bottom string. I tried a 4 string when I first started building. I should have come in about 1/8th from the edge using a standard 1 X 2 not including the fret board. Instead I came in about 3/16 which crowded my fingers when finger picking but using my stubby slide was OK. Think I'm going to give it another whack...Marcus
The neck is 1.5" x 1", It's not s standard 1x2 which loses some wood in the finishing. It started out as a full 2" X 1 1/4" piece that I sawed down. The neck could actually shrink down a little further and I think the spacing would still be fine.
Thanks for the comments. I'm really looking forward to the next build. I'm going to try a piezo in the the next one. I'm still tweaking this one a little. Need to get the strings lower for better action. I figure I will hand them down to my daughters as I build replacements.
I'll scan youtube for some how to play videos. Need to let my fingers rest anyway.
Keep on keeping on and you'll learn something new with each build.
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