Sometimes you’re the windshield, sometimes the bug……

Sometimes you look back at the week and think, “What on Earth have I been doing all week?” and sometimes you think, “Well that was a good one: I deserve a beer!”

So couple of photo sequences for you- the cocobolo bindings going on to Martin’s and the neck on to Chris’s.

I'm going to have that beer.

Cheers Gary!

Two Backs

Two quite different mandolins on the go here.....

So what’s on the bench…..

Firstly, the French polishing of Youhei’s mandolin has been completed and it’s just hardening in the workshop. The quilted maple looks truly stunning, I’m sure you’ll agree!

Next on the bench is a Standard mandolin for Martin; he has opted for a couple of upgrades, a  cocobolo and abalone rosette, abalone head inlay and an under-saddle transducer. Also there’s a left-handed e-mando for Chris. 

Below are the two heads.

The rosette’s apparently “simple” design belies how tricky it was to make, however both Martin and I are happy with the outcome;-)

Bad news for aspiring luthiers!

I, like so many UK luthiers, did my initial training at the London College of Furniture; that was in the 1970s. Over the years, the course and the educational establishment’s name has changed, but it is (was) still a place where those wishing to study the art of musical instrument repair and making (not just fretted instruments) could start their career. So, needless to say I was both saddened and angered to hear that musical instrument making is being wound-up and the building sold-off. There are very few opportunities in the UK for aspiring luthiers; so if you feel inclined there is an on-line petition to sign. CLICK HERE

Cheers Gary