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DanMade
30-11-2013, 07:09 AM
Here is my first attempt at a scratch body. The rest of the parts were all sourced from spares I had laying around.

The body is made of extremely rare and exotic radiata pine. No Finish on it as of yet. Not sure if I will actually use this body, even though it turned out pretty good. I will probably strip it and use the parts elsewhere.

But for now it plays and sounds quite good. So I'll leave it together until after this weekends session.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/zyz7c-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/hu7ww-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/iabq0-image.jpg

robin
30-11-2013, 07:25 AM
Well done Dan, looks great. I am very envious, I don't think I could ever accomplish a scratch build, let alone know where to get some very rare exotic radiata pine ;)

rob

stan
30-11-2013, 08:00 AM
looks pretty good Dan, pine is not a lot different from basswood, and I think some early Fenders were in a pine of sorts.
doesn't matter what the wood is - if it sounds good, then it is good.

How did you go about getting the neck fit correct?

DanMade
30-11-2013, 08:29 AM
It's a bit on the thin side, only 35mm. But I will probably try another pine build with some 45's.

Stan, I made templates for all the cut outs. So it was just a matter of keeping everything square. I scribed a center line at the start and just worked everything from that.

I will post a pic of the templates I made.

The pine(90x35)was just some off cuts from some benches I made. I just trued the edges up with an electric plane. Then glued them between some sash cramps.

I only have a 1/4 inch trimmer so I had to keep all my rough cuts within 1.5mm so the router could handle it. I was actually impressed with how well the bosch trimmer worked. The only downside with a 1/4 inch router is the router bits only do about a 25mm deep cut,so you need to flip the body over and make a pass from the opposite side.

It's possible to build a guitar body with just a 1/4 inch trimmer/router, but not ideal.

DanMade
30-11-2013, 08:49 AM
Here are some shots of the templates and the router and bits I used.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/e8i35-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/z5647-image.jpg

lawry
30-11-2013, 10:31 AM
Dan, that is mighty fine. And exotic timbers always make a classy guitar. Seriously though, I am like Robin in that I could never do it. I don't have the skills. Well done.

lawry
30-11-2013, 10:31 AM
Dan, that is mighty fine. And exotic timbers always make a classy guitar. Seriously though, I am like Robin in that I could never do it. I don't have the skills. Well done.

DanMade
30-11-2013, 10:51 AM
I'm sure any of you guys could give it a go. A basic body like this doesn't require to much skill. Just some simple planing and preparation. It's just cutting out shapes. And could be done with only a jigsaw and router. Well there is a lot more to it than just that, but as far as shaping a piece of timber is concerned. It's not to hard.

I am a cabinet maker and have many tools of the trade that just so happen to be great for guitar building too, so that is a plus. But if you are already shaping your own headstocks, why not have a go at a body.

Necks on the other hand.....

stan
30-11-2013, 09:26 PM
terrific pics Dan, thanks

Fretworn
01-12-2013, 12:06 AM
P90 Tele. Awesome.

GlennGP
01-12-2013, 01:43 AM
Inspirational stuff, Dan. I'm planning a scratch-build for mid next year (custom body shape), and gradually assembling the equipment for it, so I find this very interesting. I have an LP-1 kit to acquire and build first, then on to the scratch. Eventually I should be ready for the Red Special!

wokkaboy
03-12-2013, 01:43 AM
looks great Dan, well done and you get so much more satisfaction with a scratch body. I started building pine body scratch builds, just glued 4 pieces of 600 x 90 x 40 mm pine together and only cost about $20 from the big green shed so if you stuffed up was no great loss. Dan is right its not that hard, you just have to get a few basic tools (jigsaw to cut templates), a router with pattern following bit, and slowly route the cavities. I use a bandsaw to cut the basic body shape then lots of orbital sanding and it takes shape.
A coat of stain on the body should look excellent Dan !

DanMade
03-12-2013, 02:08 AM
Hey woks, I saw you mentioned in another thread somewhere about how you started with pine bodies. I saw that post the nite after I had prepped the blank. Made me think I was on the right track. Got to start somewhere.

I was at the local hardware this morning. I got ahold of some 45mm pine. The 35mm I used for this first body was too thin. But it was good practice.
I told the guy at the hardware what I was doing with the timber and he gave me it free of charge. You wouldn't get that kind of service a bunnings now would you.

I've docked the pine to length and squared up the edges. And it's now in clamps.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/9vv5d-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/r32x5-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/p35gr-image.jpg

wokkaboy
03-12-2013, 02:25 AM
sure sounds good Dan, good work getting the pine from your hardware for free !
here's some pics of one of the pine scratch bodies I built, I got it wrong mine was 45mm thick as well. You can still get some nice grain from $20 worth of wood.
Come on forumites have a crack at a scratch body !
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/1d9wc-2013-02-09-12.48.08.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/m5zb9-2013-02-09-12.49.32.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/vl1o3-2013-02-09-20.32.16.jpg

DanMade
03-12-2013, 03:47 AM
Here I have just cut the template of my original body shape. First cut was done with a jig saw and then sanded to the final shape.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/lpfe5-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/w0888-image.jpg

keloooe
03-12-2013, 04:04 AM
Nice shape Dan, it looks really nice! I better start planning my first scratch build too...

wokkaboy
03-12-2013, 04:12 AM
love the shape Dan, very original with a bit of musicman shape, should look good. Keep the update pics coming !

DanMade
03-12-2013, 08:31 AM
Once the glue has had enough time to cure, (I only left it for 10 hours on a hot sunny Qld day. I use titebond and it recommends 24 hours in mild conditions.) I sanded the faces to a flat surface. It's a good idea to use a straight edge to check your progress so you don't end up with any dips and bumps.

Next I've rough cut the shape on the bandsaw. You could use a jigsaw here, but take care to make sure the blade is cutting at 90* square. When cutting thicker depth timber with a jigsaw the blade can tend to start flexing and cut at an off angle. A sharp blade can help this.

It's a bit late to fire up the router so I will do that tomorrow.
Please know that this isn't exactly a how to instructional. It's just how I'm going about it with limited tools.

If you want to see how a pro goes about it, check this thread http://www.pitbullguitars.com/?page_id=42&mingleforumaction=viewtopic&t=357

http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/5x50u-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/4g0t1-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/lw48a-image.jpg

wokkaboy
03-12-2013, 10:01 AM
looking good Dan, love how the grain worked out with the joins can now barely be seen

DanMade
03-12-2013, 11:53 PM
Now on to routing the body shape.

I've attached the template using double stick tape.
First I make a pass from the top with a top bearing router bit, then I flip it over and make a pass with a bottom bearing bit.

If I had a 1/2 inch router I could use a longer bit and do it all in one pass. I would even set it in a router table and make life much easier. One day.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/4v3vs-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/m7oh6-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/30i3v-image.jpg

DanMade
04-12-2013, 12:05 AM
Not sure on the configuration of the pickups yet.

I have a mini humbucker, 2x emg humbuckers, 2x low output chrome HB. 2x black metal type HB and a set of single coils. Too many options.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/8nhq9-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/961th-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/jeu4k-image.jpg

pablopepper
04-12-2013, 12:06 AM
Looking good Dan. I really like that shape, any contours planned?

GlennGP
04-12-2013, 01:00 AM
Yep, nice shape, and thanks for the pics of the router with various bits on, following the template. Gives me a much better understanding of the process.

Fretworn
04-12-2013, 01:20 AM
I like the body shape. Looks wise I kind of like the single pickup in the neck position. Very Jazzy. Wouldn't be the most versatile set up, but I find the visual aesthetic is very important for me when it comes to pickup style and placement.

wokkaboy
04-12-2013, 01:21 AM
looking good Dan, shape looking good.
also good insight to show forumites that scratch body builds aren't that difficult, well done

keloooe
04-12-2013, 01:29 AM
Hey Dan, is there a switch in the body for pickup selection?

wokkaboy
04-12-2013, 01:48 AM
Pest I'm sure Dan plans to put a pickup selector switch when he works out what pickups he's putting in and where the selector switch will be, less routing if it goes next to the volume/tone pots

DanMade
04-12-2013, 08:52 AM
/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/Quote from keloooe on December 3, 2013, 10:29
Hey Dan, is there a switch in the body for pickup selection?

I solved that problem by only using one pup, lol.
Yeah I just wasn't sure what switching would be needed.

I finished off the rest of the routing for the neck pocket and pup this arvo.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/seo1a-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/m7dpm-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/600q0-image.jpg

GlennGP
04-12-2013, 08:59 AM
Brilliant "how to", thanks Dan - honestly, as a visual learner, this is worth so much more than a thousand words on the subject. A single look at the neck pocket template and the line across the body and you've solved about twenty scratch-build mysteries for me. Sweet.

DanMade
04-12-2013, 09:01 AM
I decided to keep it simple and use a single neck pickup. Though I will be using a selector switch to split the mini humbucker, along with a volume and tone pot.
I'm still yet undecided on a Tele style control plate or if I will do a rear cavity for the controls, LP style.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/ots7a-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/txj4s-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/y0460-image.jpg

DanMade
04-12-2013, 09:13 AM
/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/Quote from GlennGP on December 3, 2013, 17:59
Brilliant "how to", thanks Dan - honestly, as a visual learner, this is worth so much more than a thousand words on the subject. A single look at the neck pocket template and the line across the body and you've solved about twenty scratch-build mysteries for me. Sweet.

Well I'm not really one for words, so this works well for both of us.

I just work from a center line. I use a protractor to find 90* off the center line.

DanMade
07-12-2013, 07:14 AM
Next it was onto the body contours, I was a bit apprehensive as I haven't tried anything like this before.

At first I used a rasp file, but after some slow progress I thought there must be a better way. So I switched to an angle grinder with a sanding disc attached. Although it was quite dusty, it was very efficient and easy to control.

Once I had removed the bulk of the waste I finished it off with a random orbital sander.

Turns out it wasn't too difficult and I'm happy with the result.

DanMade
07-12-2013, 07:48 AM
I'm having trouble posting photos at the moment.

maxaxe
07-12-2013, 07:54 AM
That's a pretty amazing bit of work and an enlightening mini tutorial.

I've previously toyed with the idea of a scratch build body, but was apprehensive about some aspects of it.

Inspiring stuff . . .

DanMade
07-12-2013, 09:25 AM
I've actually started on the finish. So I have plenty of pics to upload.

It's good too see others are enjoying the build, part of my intention was to show other beginners that is not that daunting a task. You might not get it right the first time, but you have to start somewhere.

stan
07-12-2013, 09:58 AM
great work Dan. you make it look easy.

Some PRS guitars use a 5 way rotary switch to split the humbucker front and back, series , parallel,etc for a bunch of tones out of one humbucker - you could also use a 5 way strat type switch...

DanMade
07-12-2013, 10:14 AM
Well I was going to just use a spdt switch to spilt it, but now you have spiked my interest with the rotary switch Stan.

I do like the option to run series or parallel, slug or screw coil. Lots of sounds. Although I'm not sure if I could get my head around the wiring needed. I'll deffinatly look into it.

Thanks Stan.

DanMade
07-12-2013, 10:23 AM
That was easy. Just a quick google search.

Was this the kind of thing you had in mind Stan
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/b7ywq-image.jpg

AJ
07-12-2013, 11:20 AM
Dan, you've sparked my inner creativity, and am going to give a scratch body a go, where did you get the body plan from? (dimensions etc)

DanMade
07-12-2013, 11:48 AM
Hey AJ. This one I drew up from scratch using the basic dimensions of a telecaster. Scale, body width and length, basic pickup positions. Just to get the basic proportions, then I just freestyled the design from there.

I actually drew it up at half scale on some grid paper, then went to officeworks and had it copied at 200%, now I had full size drawings to use as templates. I haven't made a detailed plan for this one. I'm just making things to suit as the design develops.

I have some plans I got from ALS that I used for that first Tele a tried. There not particular cheap ,$30 a pop. They are very accurate and correct though.

AJ
07-12-2013, 11:53 AM
Good thinking outside the lateral Dan, here's a link that was posted some where on the forum a while ago https://sites.google.com/site/guitarplanscollection/home , not sure how they pan out?

DanMade
07-12-2013, 11:15 PM
Let's see if it will let me post pictures today.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/pis65-image.jpg

DanMade
07-12-2013, 11:23 PM
Cool. Here is some more shots of the contours.

Next I used a round over bit on the edges. I only have a 5mm radius bit, I would of preferred a larger round over bit. But it looks fine with the smaller radius.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/iz6b4-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/84g58-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/x3422-image.jpg

DanMade
07-12-2013, 11:40 PM
With the main body work done, I now set my bridge placement and finalise the control panel and cavity.

I fit the bridge temporarily to help with neck alignment when I come to fit the neck.

I made a template for the control cavity and routed it out.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/k965c-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/488k1-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/9jiku-image.jpg

DanMade
08-12-2013, 12:09 AM
I'm not using a neck plate for this one, I countersunk the screw holes about 1/8 of an inch and used some 5mm stainless washers.

Next I drilled the hole for the output jack with a 19mm spade bit.

In the last photo you can see some splits developing. There was a small crack in the pine, and because it is near the edge the timber has lost its integrity and the split has opened up. This is what you get when you use cheap pine that is not properly seasoned.

I got some glue into the splits and clamped them up, it helped but because they are right on the edge there is not a lot of meat to work with so they are still quite noticeable.


http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/cv076-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/n2377-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/jocdw-image.jpg

DanMade
08-12-2013, 12:16 AM
So next it was onto everyone's favourite job, sanding....... No photos for this step, just a lot of dust.

Im just using leftovers I have to finish this body. A mahogany stain, finished with tru oil.


http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/2212k-image.jpg

AJ
08-12-2013, 12:44 AM
looking great Dan

DanMade
08-12-2013, 04:05 AM
Last few pics for a while. This is after 4 coats

I'll keep applying coats and then give it some time to cure.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/wka0p-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/d5c72-image.jpg

AJ
08-12-2013, 04:31 AM
Coming up a treat Dan

lawry
08-12-2013, 05:51 AM
Wow Dan. That's looking really classy. The shine on the colour is already deep. If I didn't know what you started off with I certainly wouldn't have guessed. It's really cool watching this build. You've almost got me believing I could do it. But I can't. No skills, no tools and no shed. One of the joys of renting. However, in three years (retirement time) we'll be moving to the tablelands and I will definitely have a shed there -and a proppa recording studio. Meanwhile... I love watching these sorts of builds. Cheers.

Fretworn
08-12-2013, 07:57 PM
This is coming up fantastic.

AJ
09-12-2013, 12:02 AM
I have now glued a bunch of rare DAR indoor xmas trees (pine) together now.. and am toying with design of a body.. then to make a template.
being one to give most things a try, what would be the downside to making a neck out of pine? also what are the mechanical differences between pine and maple (rock maple)?

DanMade
09-12-2013, 12:15 AM
Way to go AJ. I toyed with the idea to try a pine neck. Depending on the pine you are using it is quite prone to splitting. This is why I decided against it. People do make necks from pine, but you would want some good quality, well seasoned timber to avoid any issues.

No harm in trying a pine neck though. At worst it's a learning exercise.

Best of luck with your build.

AJ
09-12-2013, 07:59 AM
Got busy Dan , finished the template and routed a body now. Just need to make templates for the neck pocket and pups.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/acv4h-DSCF1433.JPG
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/3ssit-DSCF1437.JPG

AJ
09-12-2013, 08:01 AM
Must say, yours is looking a million dollars matey, well done!
I wont post any more here in your thread as I don't want interfere with your inspirational build

Analyst69
09-12-2013, 09:25 AM
Just speculating, as I am sure there are others who know better, but I would think if you did make a neck from Pine, you would want to make a 5 or 7 piece neck combined with strips of some other wood between each pine strip.

My understanding is, that this type of construction reduces the potential for twisting (which is what Pine loves to do to me when building furniture).

Cheers

Darren

DanMade
09-12-2013, 10:15 AM
That's a great idea Darren. A 5-7 piece laminate neck. If you wanted to keep it to readily available and cheap timbers you could try a mix with Tassi oak or maranti.

Although I think if your going to build your own neck it would be well worth sourcing quality timbers.

And AJ that's coming along nicely. Very cool and original body shape you have come up with.
No worries either about posting your build here, it's good too see some one else jumping in the deep end with me. :)

Anyways, I received a parcel from DB the other day. A one piece Fijian mahogany body blank.

This is why I wanted some practice on some pine body's first. It's build will be a lot better planned out than this one was. What a great looking slab of timber, hopefully I can do it justice.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/0wxva-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/uv747-image.jpg

pablopepper
09-12-2013, 10:29 AM
Impressive build Dan. Can't wait to see what's in store for that beautiful slab of wood.

wokkaboy
10-12-2013, 05:58 AM
well done Dan you knocked this up very quickly, love the shape and the colour. Look forward to seeing what you shape with the slab !

dingobass
11-12-2013, 09:44 AM
To answer the question re using Pine for necks, the short answer is yes.

However, you will need to source a hard variety such as Celery Top which has a nice straight grain.
It will also need to be extremely well seasoned.. as in at least 5 years worth.

Doable but my advice would be to stick with using Canadian Rock Maple for your first builds and dont forget to instal a two way truss rod.

dingobass
11-12-2013, 10:05 AM
Oh, Great stuff Guys!

I neglected to say well done :)

The first build is always the most daunting. Tomorrow I will post some pics of how I make my templates, it will make it even easier for you.

DanMade
13-12-2013, 03:35 AM
Well I have pretty much finished this build. I probably didn't leave the finish long enough to cure, but I couldn't wait any longer. I wanted to get on with it.

I ordered some rotary switches from overseas so there will be a wait on them. Instead of using the rotary switch I just went with a simple spdt switch to split the pup. I'm also trying a 1meg pot for the vol.


http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/4zyvh-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/8vzq0-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/3h3t9-image.jpg

DanMade
13-12-2013, 03:41 AM
Couple more.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/l69m1-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/c8p06-image.jpg

wokkaboy
13-12-2013, 03:55 AM
wow Dan well done, how does it play and sound ?
colours come up sweet with the black neck, what sort of mahogany stain was the body ? looks like a feast and Watson mahogany tint colour I've used

DanMade
13-12-2013, 06:42 AM
Cheers Wokka, yes you got it in one. It is a Feast Watson mahogany stain.

I had a few setup issues with it. Firstly, the donor neck I used had the truss rod tightened right up. So I had to back it way off.
Once I had some strings on I found the neck angle was not quite right. I had to shim the heel of the neck. I used a small piece of thin veneer to shim it out only slightly. Now the action and relief are much better. Though the neck is still settling itself due to the big change in truss rod tension.

After fixing those few issues it plays nicely now. And should be even better once it has settled into itself and I do the final setup.

As for sound, it sounds like I thought a pine guitar would sound like. It has a bright tone with a hard attack. I wouldn't say it has a thin sound because it is quite full sounding, but it has a kind of airy feel to it. Kind of acoustic guitar sort of sound.

This could be partly because of the 1 meg pot I used, it might be slightly warmer sounding if I used a 500k pot. But it douse sound fine the way it is.

I'll get a vidieo of how it plays once the neck settles in and it stays in tune for more than 2 minutes.

wokkaboy
13-12-2013, 06:48 AM
cool excellent, sure my scratch body builds had to tweak the neck pocket a bit, shows how important the neck pocket shape/angle is. Good description of the pine body sound, I can relate to that with mine.
Look forward to a sound demo once you've played it a bit and it keeps tune. Next scratch body build you will have to put a neck and bridge pickup.
So is the neck a Pit Bull neck or one off another guitar ?

DanMade
13-12-2013, 07:13 AM
The neck is off an old parts guitar I picked up for dirt cheap from Cashies. It's in good nick, just the truss rod was a little too tight.

As for the neck angle. Initially when I set it up without a shim, the string hight at the 22nd was around 4mm. At first I tried two pieces of .6mm veneer. But this 1.2mm shim changed the angle too much and the strings were now touching the fretboard.

Off with the neck again, removed one of the shims. Now it has been shimmed .6mm. This was perfect once the neck was back on. So from just a thin .6mm shim I was able to correct the neck angle and lower the string hight by around 2mm.

That first Tele I did had two pickups. This one I wanted to be a simple one pup setup.

I told my mate, one day I'm going to make a guitar with just a neck pup and a big kill switch. No volume or tone pots.. Well this was one step closer to that.

wokkaboy
13-12-2013, 07:41 AM
yer ok well done Dan, sure you have learnt a heap with the 2 scratch builds you have done. Nice work updating your avatar !

AJ
13-12-2013, 07:56 AM
Looks a million bucks Dan!
( I have come to a standstill atm due to other commitments and weather, but should be back to hacking at the body in the next day or 2))
just a quick Q matey , normally the fender style guitars have zero neck angle as the neck is proud above the body at the joint,( the height above the top of the body is supposed to be some mysterious angle from the bridge at it's lowest height plus the thickness of the keyboard plus the fret height?????). So, when you shimmed, was it across all the heel of the neck joint or was it either front or back? I was going to use the old cort neck I have but not too sure as I might end up putting that back together. So the idea may be to get a new neck..

DanMade
13-12-2013, 08:16 AM
Hey AJ. Yeah I've been lucky to have some spare time at the moment, this is why I've been busy.

You are correct about the zero neck angle on most fender type guitars. But because I used a different style of bridge, a wilkinson aluminium wraparound bridge. I had to make some slight adjustments. I only placed the shim at the bottom end of the neck, a 12 mm wide strip across the bottom.

adam
13-12-2013, 09:09 AM
Hey Dan, I really enjoyed following this thread, the guitar looks sensational. Well done mate! I'm even willing to look past the fact you've probably inspired everyone to abandon the kits and start their own scratchies.

Hey guys, we sell necks and body blanks... Guys? GUYS?!?

stan
13-12-2013, 09:14 AM
ripper job Dan, must be cool to have one you made from scratch! Nice work too!

DanMade
13-12-2013, 09:53 AM
/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/Quote from adam on December 12, 2013, 18:09
Hey Dan, I really enjoyed following this thread, the guitar looks sensational. Well done mate! I'm even willing to look past the fact you've probably inspired everyone to abandon the kits and start their own scratchies.

Hey guys, we sell necks and body blanks... Guys? GUYS?!?

Lol. Thanks Adam. The thought of steering people away from your kits did cross my mind, but this wasn't my intention at all. I was just sharing my experience with other like minded people.

Don't worry. My next build will be using a PBG neck and body blank. That I already have and couldn't be happier with.

While I've tried to show having a crack at your own body with minimal tools is possible, you still need to have those few basic tools. Which, if you don't already have can be quite costly. So the kits really are great value.

AJ
13-12-2013, 10:28 AM
/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/Quote from adam on December 12, 2013, 18:09
Hey Dan, I really enjoyed following this thread, the guitar looks sensational. Well done mate! I'm even willing to look past the fact you've probably inspired everyone to abandon the kits and start their own scratchies.

Hey guys, we sell necks and body blanks... Guys? GUYS?!?

I'm seriously considering purchasing a neck Adam, just working out how I can slip it past the OIC of finances without her noticing.. and so close to xmas 8O

dingobass
15-12-2013, 02:37 PM
/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/Quote from adam on December 12, 2013, 18:09
Hey Dan, I really enjoyed following this thread, the guitar looks sensational. Well done mate! I'm even willing to look past the fact you've probably inspired everyone to abandon the kits and start their own scratchies.

Hey guys, we sell necks and body blanks... Guys? GUYS?!?


Wot Adam said.... I have chunks of trees here waiting to be turned into guitar body blanks...
the quality and price is better than most. Come onnnnnnnnnn guys!, who doesnt want a body or blank crafted by the Dingobass? :D

Brendan
16-12-2013, 12:03 PM
Quote from adam on December 12, 2013, 18:09
Hey Dan, I really enjoyed following this thread, the guitar looks sensational. Well done mate! I'm even willing to look past the fact you've probably inspired everyone to abandon the kits and start their own scratchies.

Hey guys, we sell necks and body blanks... Guys? GUYS?!?

Pretty keen to give this a go, but need to clear a backlog first...

keloooe
16-12-2013, 09:46 PM
Same, I have a small backlog to fill then I'll get my hands on one of those beautiful chunks of tree!

robin
16-12-2013, 10:33 PM
Well done Dan, what a beautiful guitar.

I am sure that this Thread will be an inspiration to many to do a scratch build. I know you said it was not meant to be a Tutorial, but the way you have documented the build it will be invaluable for the first timer. Still way beyond my skills and resources, but I can dream.

Thanks mate.

rob

Analyst69
17-12-2013, 07:46 AM
Great thread Dan, really inspirational. I love the idea of using Pine (which I work with for other things a lot) to hone the scratch build skills.

I'm keen on one of the body blanks from DB, after some router practice...but also need to clear a backlog first.

Cheers

Darren

AJ
18-12-2013, 02:45 AM
I've just ordered a Tl style neck to go with the "experimental" body Dan. Now am looking at various painting options before I do the routing to the exotic rare pine..If all turns out good, the next order will be for either the black wood blank or ash blank.or the cheaper Fijian . decisions decisions..

GlennGP
18-12-2013, 07:42 AM
Fascinating and inspirational, Dan. Bookmarked.

DanMade
16-01-2014, 04:05 AM
I've been meaning to get a demo vid of this last one, but I've been slack and haven't got around to it yet.

The guitar itself is playing nicely and keeping tune well now after a good setup after it had settled into itself.

I've got a few more builds underway at the moment. A while back I brought some plans from ALS, one I've been exited to start is a Baritone Jaguar. When I saw they had these plans I had to grab them.
Another plus is that DingoBass has already made one of these and documented it all in his build diary, Cheers DB.

Mine will be a bit different than DB's. Mainly due to budget, I'm just using what I have laying around for the most part.

This will also be my first "crack" at a neck. No pun intended, well maybe. I haven't documented it like I did with my last build, I haven't gone crazy with the photos.

At the moment I have the body pretty much finished and sanded ready to start pore filling. And the neck is roughed in, fretboard attached and ready for fret dots and then frets to be installed.

Here's some pics. Can anyone guess what the timbers I'm using are?
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/o8og8-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/5zstf-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/n81yf-image.jpg

wokkaboy
16-01-2014, 04:38 AM
that looks amazing Dan, the body looks alot like the ash bodies, presume fingerboard is maple ?
Is this entire build from scratch including the fingerboard (fret slots, shaping etc) ? The headstock looks great too. You kept this build quiet, its come along way
Where did you source the timbers ?

DanMade
16-01-2014, 05:09 AM
Hey woks, yep it's all from scratch. Fingerboard and all. I have just used some scrap I had for the neck. And the body wood came from the local hardware.

I won't give it away just yet, but let's just say there not your usual tonewoods.

And I've been busy wit all the normal Christmas/ New Years stuff that I haven't had much time for the forum. Things are back to normal now.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/rsjx6-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/41u2x-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/46ja2-image.jpg

wokkaboy
16-01-2014, 05:44 AM
that gave it away Dan (body wood from a hardware), the body is pine I'd guess, its a bit to light in colour for ash.
Looks fantastic, I'm keen to start building necks so would love to see more detail in the build (if you took photos) would be keen to see how you did it.
Presume you made templates for the routing cavities. Great job for your 2nd scratch build !

DanMade
16-01-2014, 09:05 AM
Ok, I used a length of cedar decking, 140mm x 40mm. For the body.
And a length of Tassie oak for the neck.

With the plans I had, I went to a printer and made some copies to use for templates. I stuck them to some 12mm mdf with contact adheisieve.. Then just cut them out from there.

I have the two templates for the body. One for the body shape and control cavity recess. And the second that has the plan on it, is for the neck pocket, pups, and main control cavity.

I've done some more sanding on the neck, down to 220 grit.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/6dc41-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/2l0v0-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/82ynz-image.jpg

DanMade
16-01-2014, 09:29 AM
You might be wondering what that truss rod is that I'm using. All the suppliers were closed over Xmas, so I had to make my own. Don't know how well it will work, but the ideas there.

I just used some 10mm Ali channel, a square nut, a coupler and a Allen socket screw. And 1/4 inch threaded rod.

Something like this, I put some heat shrink over the rod the stop any rattles and make a snug fit.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/0e23s-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/7d09l-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/1322g-image.jpg

AJ
16-01-2014, 11:29 AM
nice matey. really nice

dingobass
16-01-2014, 02:01 PM
Looking good :)
Be interested to see how the Tassie Oak performs for the neck...

pablopepper
16-01-2014, 10:21 PM
Hell yeah! Beautiful work Dan. That is going to be a gorgeous instrument.

DanMade
16-01-2014, 11:58 PM
/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/Quote from dingobass on January 15, 2014, 23:01
Looking good :)
Be interested to see how the Tassie Oak performs for the neck...


Yeah, I'm not sure how the Tassie oak will go. I've never heard of it being used for necks before. It is a quite stable timber, so hopefully it can stand up to the string tension of a bear intone scale.

When I started the neck I never had any intention of actually using it on an instrument. I was just testing my teqnique with the angle grinder. But it came ot nicely so I thought I would knock out a body for it. And see how the Tassie oak does work for the neck.

As for the cedar, while it looks great it is extreamly soft. When working with cedar it's advisable to wear dark glasses, because, just look at it the wrong way and it will scratch and dent. Lol.

Again I'm not too sure how the cedar will go. It's easy to work being as soft as it is, though it does tear quite easily if tools are not razor sharp, and extra care needs to be taken to not scratch the delicate surface.

And I'd say it's going to pick up dents and such very easily once it is finished. I'm not sure what finish I will use yet, it's going to be something that leaves a hard durable surface though.

maxaxe
17-01-2014, 11:03 AM
Great to see some experimentation,innovation & ingenuity.

Judging by the quality of your work, things should turn out really well.
Be interesting to see how these woods look when you apply the finishes.
And making your own truss rod? just brilliant.

AJ
17-01-2014, 11:46 AM
you may have to use a catalysis clear finish (2pac) to give the cedar a more resilient finish... just a thought

dingobass
17-01-2014, 11:57 AM
Back to the naughty room, AJ..... :)

dingobass
17-01-2014, 11:59 AM
Actually, just kidding... at the expense of tone.. you may have to resort to a hard 2 pack finish.... Shove over a bit AJ, i am joining you in the naughty room......

Brendan
17-01-2014, 01:46 PM
DB welcome to the naughty room - fancy some Tru Oil? We have litres of it apparently ;).

Fretworn
18-01-2014, 01:35 AM
/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/Quote from Brendan on January 16, 2014, 22:46
DB welcome to the naughty room - fancy some Tru Oil? We have litres of it apparently ;).

Are you drinking the stuff? That explains things........

Gavin1393
18-01-2014, 02:09 AM
/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/Quote from dingobass on January 16, 2014, 20:59
Actually, just kidding... at the expense of tone.. you may have to resort to a hard 2 pack finish.... Shove over a bit AJ, i am joining you in the naughty room......

Oh no! DB, you have crossed over to the dark side!

...or is it because your wi-fi is broken in your man-cave?

Brendan
18-01-2014, 10:51 AM
No - think he got distracted by the cricket in the naughty room - sorry Bass Guy!


Quote from Fretworn on January 17, 2014, 10:35
Are you drinking the stuff? That explains things........

Pest started it :(

AJ
18-01-2014, 11:04 PM
hi dingobass, we may have to start time sharing the wifi now...lol

DanMade
19-01-2014, 01:26 AM
I heard that DB nicked the router from the naughty room. So I picked one up while I was out and about this morn.
Apparently it does everything, even Wi-Fi.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/q8rd5-image.jpg

AJ
19-01-2014, 07:17 AM
COOL! lol

stan
19-01-2014, 09:01 AM
looks like it could mix drinks too...

dingobass
19-01-2014, 02:07 PM
nice one :)

DanMade
19-01-2014, 11:00 PM
I've had a play with the beast since. What a machine!

Being a cabinetmaker, I've used plenty of routers. I have to say this Triton blows all others away that I've tried, many that are close to triple the price point of the triton.

This ones the 2400w model, I picked it up from Mitre 10 mega for a steal at $330. Most places retail around $450. So when the salesman told me what his best price was I had to ask twice.

It's got a super smooth start up and a revolutionary rack and pinion plunge system, that feels kind of odd when you first use it. But once you get the feel for the wrist action required to use the new plunge system it is extemly functional and accurate.
Plus it can still function like a standard plunge system with the press of a button.

On top of all that it's also got some neat features for use in a router table. But I won't go into that now.

Now I've talked it up, I hope it doesn't pack it in in 6 months time.

Back to make some dust then.

DanMade
19-01-2014, 11:15 PM
BTW. Can any one recommend somewhere I might find a 1/2in. X 2in top and bottom bearing flush trim bit.

lawry
20-01-2014, 12:18 AM
"It's got a super smooth start up and a revolutionary rack and pinion plunge system, that feels kind of odd when you first use it. But once you get the feel for the wrist action required to use the new plunge system it is extemly functional and accurate.
Plus it can still function like a standard plunge system with the press of a button."

I'm assuming this all means something to you woodworking types :?

AJ
20-01-2014, 08:28 AM
/<\\/p>[/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/]<\\/p>/Quote from DanMade on January 19, 2014, 08:15
BTW. Can any one recommend somewhere I might find a 1/2in. X 2in top and bottom bearing flush trim bit.

Carbi bit in Melbourne, or all-tools.

DanMade
21-01-2014, 10:14 AM
I had a heart stopping moment yesterday. I hung the body from the roller door to get a shot of the finish in the sunlight. I got an amazing shot of the body glowing in the light. I looked down to check the picture and I see it out of the corner of my eye and hear a sound that's like fresh leather off willow. :x

The body I had ready to Polish was laying on the concrete in front of me. I didn't want to look. As I start to inspect the situation I'm totally bemused that there doesn't seem the be any damage, at all. :o

Checking it in the light I do find a mark. The body had fallen straight down and landed flat on the bottom edge. While it had no scratches or dents and no sign of any cracks, it had just compressed the fibres at the point of impact.
I used a nasty wipe on poly finish I had, mainly for its durability. Well it certainly passed the drop test. And the Cedar held up strong.

I still can't believe I got away with this one, but there's a lesson to be learnt somewhere in there.


http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/zg7f2-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/q1ehe-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/0r5f3-image.jpg

DanMade
21-01-2014, 10:22 AM
So, on with the neck.

I needed some fret dots, so I drilled some out of a chunk of mahogany with a 6mm plug cutter. Then ran it trough a saw to release the dots.


http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/ea922-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/3xba5-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/9s7om-image.jpg

DanMade
21-01-2014, 10:31 AM
A quick touch with some sandpaper and the dots are ready to install.

They are a snug fit so just a dob of glue and a light tap top seat idled the job.

Once dry, I sanded them flush and I'm ready for fretting.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/77597-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/i97z7-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/0ng44-image.jpg

DanMade
21-01-2014, 10:52 AM
I haven't made a jig to roll the radius into the fretwire yet. I just bent it in by hand with some pliers, which was effective enough.

I used a touch of glue, and seated the frets with a block of wood and a hammer. Snip the ends off flush. And I can now start to workout my best option to file the fret ends flat. Will probably make a block with a file insert at an angle.
That's for another day though.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/y549i-image.jpg

pablopepper
21-01-2014, 10:32 PM
Wow, I don't think I've ever been as impressed by fret markers. So subtle and pretty.

DanMade
22-01-2014, 08:25 AM
Thanks Pablo, comments like that make that the extra effort worth it.
Made some more progress today. I got the frets all leveled and dressed, final sanding of the neck and a sealer coat of shellac on.


http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/7eqpw-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/7rdko-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/fc332-image.jpg

stan
22-01-2014, 10:23 AM
lovely work Dan

wokkaboy
22-01-2014, 11:37 PM
agreed, looking sensational Dan, your scratch neck looks better than a Pit Bull neck ! You are a very talented builder to get these results from is this only really your 2nd scratch build ?
Can't wait to see it complete and hear a sound demo

DanMade
31-01-2014, 10:37 AM
Well the finish has had some time to cure on the baritone and I've been able to finish things up and throw some strings on.
I ended up using a few different products on the neck.. First was 3-4 thin coats of shellac all over as a sealer. On the fretboard I used the wipe on poly that I did the body with. On the front and back of the headstock I used tru-oil and on the back of the neck I applied 3-4 coats of Scandinavian oil, for that bare timber feel.

Using the shellac as the base coat made it easy to apply the different mediums to each separate area and allow them to blend where needed.

I've still got a buzz on the 3rd string I need to find, but other than that it's sounding pretty good. Lots of sustain.
I'm still looking for the tuning it feels best in. I've never played a baritone before so I don't really have any thing to compare to. I've tried standard tunings in B,C and C#. I'm tempted to try some open tunings.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/9zl1m-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/69092-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/itd3o-image.jpg

DanMade
31-01-2014, 10:44 AM
And a couple more of the back.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/4z5a9-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/d5xi6-image.jpg

I'm happy with how it came out, it's not perfect, but I learned a lot of new techniques that I will use in the future to do things better.
Not bad though for under $30 worth of timber from the hardware. I really like the feel and sound of the cedar, but it was a bit of a pain to work with as it's so easy to scratch and mark the surface. Plus it will pick up knocks and bumps quite easily.

As for the Tassie oak. It's deffinatly stable enough and it feels and plays nicely. Still I would prefer maple or similar.

B.T.W. I also need a switch knob.

AJ
31-01-2014, 10:51 AM
this just oozes quality Dan. To see it in a shop you would be needing a fairly large bank balance to own it matey!

Brendan
31-01-2014, 11:46 AM
Looking great Dan. Beautiful job!

pablopepper
31-01-2014, 10:38 PM
Truly outstanding! I really love the look of this guitar.

DanMade
31-01-2014, 10:54 PM
Thanks for the comments guys. Here is a better shot in natural light.


http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/g3kh3-image.jpg

wokkaboy
31-01-2014, 11:31 PM
wow Dan you really have excelled with this build, looks amazing. I never knew it was a baritone scale. Even got EMG HZ's in it. Look forward to a video demo once the final setup is done

Gavin1393
01-02-2014, 12:07 AM
Gorgeous. Grain is sensational. Awesome choice of colour. It's getting to the point where we could even have a 'scratch Build' GOTQ....???

Fretworn
01-02-2014, 01:06 AM
Very fine. Now lets hear how it sounds.

DanMade
01-02-2014, 01:40 AM
I'm trying to record a quick demo at the moment. But every time I hit record my fingers stop working. I'll get a clip up shortly. :)

lawry
01-02-2014, 01:49 AM
That is a gorgeous guitar, Dan. The colour reminds me of crema on the top of an espresso shot.
And like Wokka, I didn't realise it was a baritone either. It'll be great to hear how it sounds.

DanMade
01-02-2014, 03:04 AM
Here we go. A quick demo.

http://youtu.be/2gGt3Xcnt_c

wokkaboy
01-02-2014, 04:21 AM
Dan, its got a sweet tone, you really have a nice blues influence.
Was it on bridge pickup to start with then neck pickup ?
Does it take much adjustment to play a longer scale neck ?
Funny how the axe looks huge when you are playing it compared to photos of it on it's own

AJ
01-02-2014, 05:42 AM
sounds as good as it looks Dan, excellent matey!

DanMade
01-02-2014, 07:55 AM
/<\\/p>[]<\\/p>/Quote from wokkaboy on January 31, 2014, 13:21
Dan, its got a sweet tone, you really have a nice blues influence.
Was it on bridge pickup to start with then neck pickup ?
Does it take much adjustment to play a longer scale neck ?
Funny how the axe looks huge when you are playing it compared to photos of it on it's own

Yeah it is quite a big axe. Bridge pickup with the volume wound back at the start, then bridge with volume up, and finally on the neck pickup. Played into a blues jr just past the edge of break up.

The longer scale is easy enough to get used to but some real stretching is needed to span the first few frets..

stan
01-02-2014, 10:22 AM
terrific Dan, it sounds really nice - big guitar too!

lawry
01-02-2014, 09:06 PM
Dan, that is so cool. The sound is fantastic, so full and rich, and the scale of it on your knee makes you look like a hobbit (no of fence to the Hobbits) ;-)
Excellent build, mate. Well done. A true contender in the baritone world.

DanMade
05-02-2014, 09:50 AM
Thanks again everyone.

Well I think I've dragged out this first build thread long enough now. It actually ended up covering three builds in total.

Thanks for everyone's kind words and incouragment. And I'm glad to see it may of inspired others to have a go.

On that note I'll leave it with some shots of my latest build using the PBG mahogany blank. After these first few builds I felt comfortable to start hacking into a nice piece of timber. I've finished work on the body and have just finished the sealer coats of shellac. I plan on just using Danish oil to finish the body. Such a beautiful slab of mahogany, I want to keep it looking natural.
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/5o3cw-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/0b807-image.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/22jy6-image.jpg

Brendan
05-02-2014, 03:24 PM
Dan - Looking the business. Danger with picking a tele body though is Adam knows where you live ;).

Fretworn
06-02-2014, 01:00 AM
That Tele body looks fantastic. Oh to have a workshop, the tools, the skill and the money to be able to do this.

keloooe
06-02-2014, 01:49 AM
Fret, you don't need a full shop for this, just simple tools will do!

DanMade
06-02-2014, 02:05 AM
Yeah Fretworn, remember this fellow.http://www.pitbullguitars.com/?page_id=42&mingleforumaction=viewtopic&t=889

I'm fortunate to have a workspace, some tools and a little skill. Just need to sort out the money part. There's big money in custom guitars isn't there. Lol.