robs ST-1 Build

[robin]

OK, let’s get the excuses out of the way first:

1. Crap photos - I only have a mobile phone
2. Crap mess - Don’t have a workshop, everything is done on the back patio
3. Crap result - no talent

This being my first kit, it was always intended as an experiment, to see if I actually could do it.

I have made heaps of mistakes (most probably heaps more to come) but learnt a lot along the way. The whole experience to date has been enjoyable and most rewarding.

I took DB’s advice and I am taking my time, even to the extent of not using any power tools. Not that they are really needed, but shaping the Headstock would have been easier using a Jig Saw. But I found an old rusty Coping saw lying around so recruited that into service.

My main objective with this build is to make a guitar that is a joy to play. The appearance and sound are secondary at this stage. You can tell straight away whether it’s going to look good, but unfortunately I have to wait till it’s finished to find out how it plays.

Some pictures of my journey so far:

The body is Wudtone Carmine Gypsy and has had 4 x Deep Colour and 4 x Base Coats applied. Highlights and Gloss Top Coat to follow. Unfortunately I used a very cheap sandpaper and hadn't realized how badly it had scored the wood, but Wudtone is very forgiving and it hides a multitude of sins.

[robin]

1.
These kits can actually be completed with the most modest tool collection. My only concession so far to buying tools was to get a cheap Fret Crowning File and fret protector. This is to hopefully appease my obsession that this guitar should be a pleasure to play. Note my hi-tech fret leveller and fret rocker.

2.
Neck masked up and frets "artline'd" and ready to go.

3.
Note my shorthand next to the frets that I think needed further attention after the first "pass" of the fret leveller.

[robin]

Finished leveling (I hope) and crowning the frets. It’s hard to tell from this photo but the frets are fairly low and nicely rounded. After crowning I dressed the frets with 400 grit paper then 800 grit, then on to 000 steel wool and a final polish with 0000 steel wool. However, only time will tell if I actually got them level :/

[MikeL]

The Carmine Gypsy looks hot and with the attention you've put in on the frets I have no doubt it'll sound every bit as good as you hope.

Would love to see a pic with the pickguard sitting in place. The plain white will look excellent but I have a mental picture of the Carmine with a pearl plate poppin out of it.



All in all, I need to pull my finger out, you guys are all leaving me behind

[Gavin1393]

Looking good Rob

Are you going to do the face side of the headstock in carmine gypsy or going for the whole neck in one colour?

[stui]

Quote from robin on April 4, 2013, 18:03
3. Crap result - no talent

Doubt this will happen based on what you've posted so far...

[robin]

Quote from Gavin1393 on April 4, 2013, 18:43
Looking good Rob

Are you going to do the face side of the headstock in carmine gypsy or going for the whole neck in one colour?

Thanks Gav, but it wouldn't pass a close scrutiny. But I haven't finished yet so who knows.

The Neck and headstock is all being done with Tru-Oil. I've got about 8 coats on it so far. That will do for the neck, but I'll keep going with the headstock for a bit.

First time with Tru-Oil so not sure what I'm doing. It has built up quite a gloss which I really didn't want on the neck. I believe that I can take it back to a satin finish with fine sandpaper or steel wool, so will give that a try after it has cured a bit. I think I should have only done a few coats on the neck, but hey, this whole thing is a leaning exercise. So we live and learn.

cheers
rob

[robin]

Quote from stui on April 4, 2013, 19:41

Quote from robin on April 4, 2013, 18:03
3. Crap result - no talent

Doubt this will happen based on what you've posted so far...

Thanks Stui, but I have no experience and no idea what I am doing, which is not a very encouraging combination.

But as I said this is my first build but definitely not my last as I have already bought my next kit. So this will be a learning exercise that hopefully will put me in good stead for future builds.

cheers
rob

[robin]

Quote from MikeL on April 4, 2013, 18:31
The Carmine Gypsy looks hot and with the attention you've put in on the frets I have no doubt it'll sound every bit as good as you hope.

Would love to see a pic with the pickguard sitting in place. The plain white will look excellent but I have a mental picture of the Carmine with a pearl plate poppin out of it.

I hope it will play OK Mike, but I have got to wait till its finished to find out. The next few weeks/months are going to be unbearable until I know one way or the other. lol.

I think you are right about the Pearl plate, but the plain white will have to do for now. When she is finished, if she deserves it, I might splash out

I'll post a pic after I have got some gloss on it.

cheers
rob

[dingobass]

Hey Robin,

I love how you are not being precious about this build!

The results so far are stunning!

Your attention with the fret levelling should pay dividends, remember that when you have her strung up and you test her, you will be able to work on any frets that cause a buzz... God knows I have had to do it myself and I have got all the high tech toys.... err... tools for the job.

So you can sit back and relax as you are doing fine and with the wealth of knowledge, talent and experience here on the forum for you to tap into, you will end up with a stunning and totally awesome Guitar!