Posted this on my blog but here goes again...
Just finished first build; sadly, kinda disappointing results.
During the build I wobbled between "just make the dang thing" and "this is going to be the most beautifulest ever!". So instead of just going for a straightforward, simple build to get used to it, I ended up messing around with a lot more stuff than I probably should have.
Problems include buzzing on some of the strings; wonky fret height which is also creating buzz and bad notes on some frets; mushy tuning (string won't hold the tuning); the neck is slightly twisted from the body (imperfect bracing cut?). On top of it all I cut my bottom string while trimming the other strings...sigh.
If at first you don't succeed, right?
Replies
Seriously Sean, I'd be proud of that as my first build. Looks great. I'm coming to the end of probably about my tenth build (never counted them but it must be about ten now) and yours puts mine to shame for neatness! Definitely cut yourself some slack here my friend. These beasts are imperfect by nature and so they should be. Yep, I'd be well happy with your build.
On another note, those things you're unhappy with you've now learned from and probably won't do the same "mistake" next time. I call that double success.
Take a look at my recent photos if you want to see someone all fingers (mostly) and barely any thumbs. I had a fight with my frets and the frets won lol.
All the best with your future builds. Keep pushing forward and be proud of where you're at now then move forward :)
Bear
Thanks for the encouragement! I actually went back today and pulled it apart, made some adjustments, and I'm much happier with the results now. Not perfect by a long shot, but much better - and now I can't wait to get started on V2!