Mark's ES-3

[dave.king1]

I just knew there was a reason that my STA build was going to take at least another month

[Mark B-C]

Hi all guitar nuts in Oz. This is Mark from Wales (rugby capital of the world!!!) Thank you so much for your kind comments on my ES-3 kit. Workaboy - the tuners are actually ordinary gold sealed units with brown pearloid buttons (from USA). Inlay work is not complicated, just cut out the design into the wood and then fill it with veneer/mother-of-pearl, abalone etc. Of course it does take time, lots & lots of time, but at 73 years of age I seem to have plenty to spare. Thanks again, and don't forget to cheer for Wales in the coming World Cup?

[stan]

Hey Mark, inlay may be easy for you...
Do you simply trace out what you want, use a dremmel or hand tools to cut out he pattern?
How do you get the veneer to fit so precisely.
Perhaps a topic for another thread, but would love it if you could do a how to tutorial

[Mark B-C]

Hi Stan, All handwork,Only use Dremel for small inlays (Neck heel,Truss cover & engraving) I sand infill materials a little thicker than the cut-out area, and then sand down flush when glue set, I fine shape after cutting-out with sandpaper If there are any small gaps I fill with woodfiller/nitro-cellulose/super glue - depends on size of gap. After initial sanding, coat with n-c and sanding sealer, and then rub-down ready for finishing. I have found it necessary to make my own very small tools. Easier to inlay on laminated wood, because you can cut the outline and then just remove the top veneer of the laminate. Solid/carved tops much more difficult & don't recommend inlays on bottom bouts as can dampen vibration. Sent some photos via Adam & asked him to send to you. Cheers Mark B-C

[Rabbitz]

Man, that's it. I give up!!!!!!!!!

I can't compete, I am struggling to sand and stain.

Magnificent.

However, on the subject of Rugby I will only say this (as a former player and former supporter):

Since 1908 Australia and Wales have competed against each other in 38 matches, Australia having won 27, Wales 10, with 1 draw.

[Bass Guy]

That's astonishing work, Mark- quite unique on this forum.

Pob lwc i Gymru.

[stan]

Hi Stan, All handwork,Only use Dremel for small inlays (Neck heel,Truss cover & engraving) I sand infill materials a little thicker than the cut-out area, and then sand down flush when glue set, I fine shape after cutting-out with sandpaper If there are any small gaps I fill with woodfiller/nitro-cellulose/super glue - depends on size of gap. After initial sanding, coat with n-c and sanding sealer, and then rub-down ready for finishing. I have found it necessary to make my own very small tools. Easier to inlay on laminated wood, because you can cut the outline and then just remove the top veneer of the laminate. Solid/carved tops much more difficult & don't recommend inlays on bottom bouts as can dampen vibration. Sent some photos via Adam & asked him to send to you. Cheers Mark B-C

Thats great info Mark, thanks

[kimball492]

Mark, there's so much wonderful work that you've put into this Guitar . Well done and enjoy it. Looks fantastic