Thanks to everyone for the help!

So I've put together a combined list based on the PBG instructions and the advice in this thread so far:

  • File or fine rasp
  • Sandpaper <80-120-240-400-600-800-1200-2000>
  • Steel wool (0000 grade)
  • Coping saw
  • Electric Drill
  • Drill bits, 1mm, 1.5mm, 2mm, and 3mm
  • G Clamps
  • Screw drivers, both Phillips (sizes small 0 med 1 and large 2) and flat head
  • Long straightedges (600mm and 300mm rules) and tape measure
  • Soldering iron
  • Electronic solder
  • Clean rags
  • Pencil
  • Eye protection
  • Flat sanding block
  • Notched straight edge
  • Fret file or profiling tool
  • Level to tape sandpaper to for leveling frets, or alternatively a 12" radius sanding block
  • Something for polishing frets eg. micromesh


If I can get them cheaply (or "free" as part of a kit that contains necessary stuff, it might be worth getting a fret rocker or nut files.

Lots of standard DIY stuff there, so it's over to eBay for the rest...