NK Forster Octave mandolin build thread
Started a new OM the other week, and I'm documenting the build on Instagram. I'll post links here for those who'd like to follow it.
The instrument is a Indian rosewood and American redwood 22" scale Octave mandolin. it's the first rosewood instrument I've made in years, but I was offered some not long after I moved to Oz, and it was so nice I couldn't resist.
The summer here in Queensland can be very humid at times so I spend much of the summers making jigs, that way, when conditions are in my favour, work goes much quicker than it would otherwise.
Yes, I do have a climate controlled room for gluing, with a dehumidifier running 24/7, but still, these things have their limits, and when it is 80% + RH outside, I can't get it below 45% where I prefer it.
So the first video is me using a simple jig for notching the back strip to take the braces.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CY-vgdiFPaB/
The second video uses another jig which locates the brace ends whilst the glue dries under vacuum clamping pressure.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CZOJoPhlaLw/
Both of these jigs locate using pins, so the results are the same every time. Its a great system, utilised by many guitar factories. This summer I actually had time to think the system through and apply it to my work. The first couple of bodies made this way have been completed and they're the cleanest most accurate work I've ever done.
Nigel
www.nkforsterguitars.com
Re: NK Forster Octave mandolin build thread.
Nigel, when I click on the two links you have posted I get a message saying "Cannot play video as file is corrupt"
Re: NK Forster Octave mandolin build thread.
Works for me, but I'm signed in to Instagram
Re: NK Forster Octave mandolin build thread.
Very nice set up there. Makes me wonder how big the shop is. I'd never have the space for all of the jigs.
BTW I could watch the first video. The second required a membership to Instagram.
Re: NK Forster Octave mandolin build thread.
If it won't let you see the videos, you could always sign up and lock your account so have privacy. Then you can see the videos.
My shop is small. Basically a three car garage. Two cars worth is the machine shop - table saw, big sander, linisher, big linisher, spindle moulder, buffer, drill press, spindle sander, jointer, and a wall full of jigs. The other third is split into two. A room with a bench where I do most the hand work, and a smaller humidity controlled room where the wood is stacked and glue ups happen.
Nigel
www.nkforsterguitars.com
Re: NK Forster Octave mandolin build thread.
Re: NK Forster Octave mandolin build thread.
Is that an epoxy adhesive you are using in the laminating process, Nigel? The vacuum technique looks really good - how long does it take for the laminations to set?
Re: NK Forster Octave mandolin build thread.
Quote:
Originally Posted by
John Kelly
Is that an epoxy adhesive you are using in the laminating process, Nigel? The vacuum technique looks really good - how long does it take for the laminations to set?
Yes it is John, though there are lots of glues you can use, it doesn't have to be epoxy. I just like how hard this stuff dries and how easy it is to work with. I put it in the press for a few hours, then do the other side. I can laminate both in a day.
Nigel
www.nkforsterguitars.com
Re: NK Forster Octave mandolin build thread.
Tail block and neck glued in place, ribs fitted to take the back...
https://www.instagram.com/p/Ca9KGswvdR9/
Nigel
www.nkforsterguitars.com
Re: NK Forster Octave mandolin build thread.
Laminating a back for the OM - I'd decide in a few days to use either the laminated back or the braced back.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CbGatHUBrcQ/
Nigel
www.nkforsterguitars.com
Re: NK Forster Octave mandolin build thread
Re: NK Forster Octave mandolin build thread
Another beauty, Nigel. That rosewood looks gorgeous.
