Official Luthiers Forum!

I expect to make changes to the neck and headstock and was hoping for as many opinions as I can can get here.

1. The new headstock.
2. The new fret marker art....all flame maple
3. General improvement in artistic balance? I tried to make bolder the fretboard and headstock art to match the body more.
4. Color choices.

I have a strong preference here but I'd really like to see if there is an overwhelming consensus among you all. I appreciate the input too. I'm a little overwhelmed with all my choices at the moment.

Tan = flame maple
Dark Brown = ebony or rosewood
Purple = purple heart
Red = bloodwood or padduck

_________________
I read Emerson on the can. A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds...true...but a consistent reading of Emerson has its uses nevertheless.

StuMusic

I like #1 and #3 the most.
#1, more traditional, #3, more out there.
Purple heart looks good at first, then turns brown, even under finish.
Padooook does too, but is more attractive in its twilight years.

Stuart,

For the most part I have to agree with Filippo, but mostly about your ability to think "art" with your cnc machines. I personally do not like the fretboard markers....too much like an LP....and I love LPs. If you are going to change the markers, think more along the lines of your Elise markers, only different! That made sense didn't it? What I am trying to say, is think outside the box, like the rest of your design. I would also recommend trying a build that has a dark veneer dividing your body laminations.

Most important, have fun doing this.

Mike

IMO, square fret markers don't belong on such a curvy body, ruins the aesthetic. I'd experiment with dots and round shapes, or just leave it bare. Headstock's too Ibanez-y for such a natural looking design as well I think. An asymmetrical 3x3 might be more suitable. As far as the wood/color issue goes, I love the concept, but I find the execution to be a bit "busy". Maybe by thickening the top or body by a small amount you can make the lines look more tame and elegant. After all that though, the customer knows best, and they'll be the best guides as to how they want it to look.

Another vote for 3x3 headstock and different/no markers, but thats just me and if you like those things and so do your customers, more power to yea.