Official Luthiers Forum!

Hey guys, I've glued my book matched backs together and though it is a strong and right bond I would still like to glue on the inside bracing strip down the middle. I don't have any extra spruce what's the next best thing that I good possible get from a home department store? Thanks for the help!

The grain on center seam bracing runs at right angle to the grain of your back. You can rip if from spruce, mahogany or Spanish cedar and while it is nice to have it long enough to do the entire seam (you then notch it for the braces) that isn't completely necessary - you can cut shorter piece that just fit between the braces. I like to match the braces - if I'm using mahogany then I like the seam to also be mahogany.

However StewMac, LMI and most other lutherie supply houses sell it - why not just order a piece of the good stuff.

Lastly, there are some builders who do not brace this seam and it seems to work fine.

There's usually enough extra length in the top to cut a couple of 3/8" strips across the grain.

_________________
A man hears what he wants to hear, and disreguards the rest. Paul Simon

Use the off cuts from the back. It looks excellent, especially if you sand it nice and smooth and put a little finish on it.

_________________
http://www.CostaGuitars.com
PMoMC