Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Mark Bliss on December 4, 2013 at 5:50pm

I would have expected Bert the Welder to suggest Aluminum, Stainless steel.......

Which by the way are potentially great for use with resonator cones!

Similar to your suggestion Formica style laminates have certainly been experimented with. I have only seen/heard one, and while interesting, I found it a bit harsh personally. 

Permalink Reply by Bert the Welder on December 4, 2013 at 6:04pm

Ha ha. I actually came to the Micarta via metal work. Making knives is on my "list" on things to play with. If I ever get a lathe, spinning a cone will be added to the list. 8)

Yeah, Formica would be on the list of things to try too. I just thought the sound board would look cool if one did a ladder style Micarta. Once sanded, it would have a pattern welded/ Damascus look.

Might also be fun to use Micarta for other parts. Pot knobs, fret board, tail piece, etc.

Permalink Reply by Mike Strehlow on December 5, 2013 at 7:12am

This is an interesting idea.  I just watched http://makezine.com/2012/11/20/252128/ where he made a knife handle.  The appearance made me think of the dyed laminate plywood I have seen used for guitar building.  Paper or linen Micarta would probably work well for necks.  It might not be cheaper than a stick of oak or maple but it would make an interesting result.