Scratch bass build- "The Folly"

[Bass Guy]

Hi gang,

As I now have access to some mighty fine (and fresh) timbers, plus a woodworking dad with a great array of tools, I have decided to attempt a bass build project.

At present I have only decided on the body shape for certain. I'm fairly sure the body wood will be Tassie Blackwood. I'm considering a semi-chambered body, but that is one of the many facets up in the air. A photo of the bodyshape template pre-cutout is attached for your amusement.

As the wood is yet to be selected (and seasoned- a 2yr wait!) there won't be too many updates initially. But I'll no doubt be asking a lot of questions!

[Simon Barden]

I wish you good luck with it. 4, 5 or 6 string? Bolt-on, set-neck or thru-neck?

[Bass Guy]

I wish you good luck with it. 4, 5 or 6 string? Bolt-on, set-neck or thru-neck?

Hee hee- these are all the things I'm mulling over!

At present (and this will undoubtedly change) I'm thinking 4string fretless with a Billy Sheehan style neck join (unorthodox bolt-on), 2 octave fingerboard with neck position P-bass pickup and piezo bridge.

[Kick]

Nice design bass guy! I'll follow this thread

[wazkelly]

Hee hee- these are all the things I'm mulling over!

At present (and this will undoubtedly change) I'm thinking 4string fretless with a Billy Sheehan style neck join (unorthodox bolt-on), 2 octave fingerboard with neck position P-bass pickup and piezo bridge.

With 2 years curing time plenty of time to imagine how you want it to be.

Nice shape and the long top horn should provide loads of balance when played on a strap.

[Bass Guy]

Here is the body template cut out and rasped into some semblance of shape. I will square off the edges today and cut out the second template to work on neck pocket, pickup placement, possible chambering and control cavities. Then it's onto thinking about the neck...

[Andy40]

Ohhhhh interesting

[Nickosaurus]

Really love that shape mate

[Simon Barden]

Then it's onto thinking about the neck...

Yes. I'd definitely have one if I were you.

[robin]

Good stuff BG. The world can never have too many basses.

I will be following this thread with interest.

rob