My First Build: Which Red Is The Best Red?

[Simon Barden]

It really is easy to cut a headstock shape out using a coping saw and some files and sandpaper (a Dremel drum sander is also useful). It's a lot of work to add finish to the end of the headstock at a later date. You can even print out a paper template and stick it on as a guide if you don't feel up to hand drawing it.

Be bold and have a go.

[JohnathanL]

It really is easy to cut a headstock shape out using a coping saw and some files and sandpaper (a Dremel drum sander is also useful). It's a lot of work to add finish to the end of the headstock at a later date. You can even print out a paper template and stick it on as a guide if you don't feel up to hand drawing it.

Be bold and have a go.

You know what, you're right. I will give it a shot. Any minor bumps or errors should only serve to enahnce this guitar's character. It is hand made after all! I'll get my hands on one of those and give it a shot.

Update. Sanding is done and timbermate is on. Will sand down then add some progress shots.

[jugglindan]

It really is easy to cut a headstock shape out using a coping saw and some files and sandpaper (a Dremel drum sander is also useful). It's a lot of work to add finish to the end of the headstock at a later date. You can even print out a paper template and stick it on as a guide if you don't feel up to hand drawing it.

This is what I did. I printed several headstock shapes at actual size, cut them out with an exacto knife and tried them over the headstock blank until I had the shape I liked. Then I taped it in place with masking tape and drew the outline onto the blank with a soft pencil. Cut as close as I dared with a coping saw, followed by final shaping with rasps and hand sanding.

This was pretty much my first attempt at woodworking since high school a very long time ago. So if I can do it, anyone can!