Australian/New Zealand Luthiers Forum

Hi Richard, I think we've discussed this before but I'm NZ-based (Wanaka these days) and have been using this product from the USA http://www.vermontnaturalcoatings.com/our-products/heirloom-wipe-on-polywhey/ It's low VOC, almost odourless, easy to apply, comes in satin or gloss and I'm really happy...

Wow Rod! Can't wait to see the whole top. That burst looks beautiful from what you've shown so far.

Shane

I should add - US$49 RRP plus only $4 postage to New Zealand.

Found this via some discussion on AGF.

http://www.jjb-electronics.com/prestige-330.html

US-made. Claim to use the same components as "the other" supplier. KK pure western get such a great rap for what looks like the same setup, and these are about half the price. Has anyone tried these?

Shane

I had the same problem and ended up finding weld-on 16 at a local business that supplied sign-making equipment and materials. that was in Christchurch but sorry, can't remember the business name.

Shane

Nah, I've received several similar packages from OS including a couple from David at Timeless and have never had any issues.

Cheers,

Shane

A bit more postage info for you all - I just purchased 10 tops and 16" of brace wood and postage to Wellington NZ was $119.

Looking forward to getting my hands on some Lutz!

Cheers,

Shane

Hi Nick, Good article and am enjoying the blog. My best tips, from the perspective of someone relatively new to guitar-making (11 builds complete) are variants of those on your list: - Learn to sharpen. Every time I think I have it sorted I find a new technique and discover again what sharp really m...

Do you feel like a cigarette after carving that maple??

Great pics.

Shane

Jeremy, that is beautiful!

What do you use to cut that purfling channel? I'm intrigued.

Cheers,

Shane

I'm with Martin. I would just use the small dots. If you only have those in the image, go for 5,7,9, two @ 12, 15. It's the way Collings do theirs and I think it looks nice and clean.

Cheers,

Shane

I can tell this guy is going to have a good birthday!

Nice work Nick! I like the celluloid. Did you put anything underneath it? And how did you go keeping it flat while bending it for the purfling?

Cheers,

Shane

Thanks Nick.

Jim, I used water after testing both methods. I could only get the extended time I needed to work the colours together using water. Still not very happy with the result. Will keep trying.

Shane

Thanks Nick. Yes, I prefer this one also. It's fair to day the other one includes a few "experiments" aesthetically so came out with a bit of mongrel vibe but I really enjoy playing that smaller shape and am impressed with the sound of the walnut/cedar combo.

Shane

And the second.... A slightly larger body (385mm lower bout) Macacauba B&S Sitka top Laminated Fijian hog neck Blackheart Sassafrass rosette, headstock and end details Ebony fretboard, bridge and binding 25.4" (645mm) scale length First time I've used a Manzer style wedge. 15mm difference across the...

Hi guys, Finally got to spend some time taking pics on the weekend so here are a couple of my recent builds from over here in Wellington, NZ. First, a small-body (370mm lower bout). WRC top Black walnut B&S Fijian Swetenia (hog) neck Black & white ebony headstock veneer Ebony fretboard and bridge 24...

Thanks Nick.

Shane

Hi Stu, Should have checked your link more carefully before responding. Have found that website before but must have missed "page 2" of the glue section. :? (Would still like to hear from any NZ builders who can recommend a reliable source from their own experience). So, let me change the question u...

Thanks Stu and Allen. Its the cheaper options I'm looking for. There is very limited available at hobby stores, typically only in tiny amounts and the price is high! Hoping to find a reliable source that sells in larger quantities and has a range (thin, med, thick) to choose from.

Cheers,

Shane

Hi guys,

For those of you in NZ - what CA glue do you use (if you use CA glue at all) and where do you source it?

Thanks!

Shane

I'd do exactly what you would normally do for a 6 string. The same laws of physics still apply

Cheers,

Shane

Holey moley!

Stunning. That gidgee is absolutely beautiful.

Shane

Great job on your first build Eric. My last build was heart rimu b&s, puriri fretboard and bridge and rewarewa rosette for a friend who was also heading overseas to live. Some nice kiwi timbers to build from. What's next on the production line? BTW, I'm in Wellington and would definitely be interest...

Crikey! If "everyman" was prepared to pay for a guitar like that, luthiery might be a viable profession for a few more of us!

Awesome stuff Chris.