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Thread: Octave Mandolin braceing

  1. #1

    Default Octave Mandolin braceing

    Building an Octave mandolin ,first time build.
    Want to have back and top slightly arched.
    Can see how I can get back arched with transverse braces. If I have a joining strip on the back do I cut it to allow the transverse braces to cross it. Would that compromise the arched bracing? Have seen an X brace for the top . Can it be used to make an arched top ( with a floating bridge.? Do the braces get notched where they cross? Hope I am making myself reasonably clear. Any suggestions gratefully received
    Many thanks,
    hugh

  2. #2
    Teacher, repair person
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    Default Re: Octave Mandolin braceing

    Standard practice for mandolin and guitar bracing is as follows:

    1. The portion of the joining strip that the transverse brace intersects is cut away to allow the brace to pass across the center seam in direct and complete contact with the back. No, this does not hinder the function of the arched bracing. Rather, it enables it.

    2. Yes, x-braces should be notched at the intersection. A close and accurate fit is recommended. Look for tutorials on making a "cross-lap" joint. And yes, x-braces have been used on some carved top or arched instruments since at least the 1930's. Gibson, Flatiron, Gilchrist, Maybell [Slingerland], and many others have used it.
    Last edited by rcc56; Mar-27-2023 at 6:20pm.

  3. #3
    Registered User Tavy's Avatar
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    Default Re: Octave Mandolin braceing

    OK, let's check we understand you correctly - from what I've read you're building a flat top, albeit with an induced arch?

    Ladder bracing on the back is fine for this - sand the arch on the braces and glue them on first, then glue the centre reinforcing strip in place, cut to fit the gaps between braces. For the top, you could either ladder or X-brace. You should probably look at how guitar X-braces are made for the latter. But.... as you said a floating bridge, you will need to introduce much more arch in the top than you would for a guitar in order to deal with the downforce on the bridge.

  4. #4
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    Default Re: Octave Mandolin braceing

    Graham McDonald has a book on building bouzouki's that covers both carved and flat top OM's. He uses a combination X plus a lattice structure for the flat top instruments, but suggests a fixed bridge for flat top versions. The book is worth reading to get some ideas for bracing.

    Good luck on your build, but a warning that this can be an adictive endever.
    Bob Schmidt

  5. #5

    Default Re: Octave Mandolin braceing

    Quote Originally Posted by Bob Schmidt View Post
    Graham McDonald has a book on building bouzouki's that covers both carved and flat top OM's. He uses a combination X plus a lattice structure for the flat top instruments, but suggests a fixed bridge for flat top versions. The book is worth reading to get some ideas for bracing.

    Good luck on your build, but a warning that this can be an adictive endever.
    Many thanks for taking the time to respond, very much appreciated

  6. #6

    Default Re: Octave Mandolin braceing

    Thank you for your informative response, very much appreciated

  7. #7

    Default Re: Octave Mandolin braceing

    thank you for responding, much appreciated

  8. #8
    Jo Dusepo, luthier Dusepo's Avatar
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    Default Re: Octave Mandolin braceing

    I previously shared some octave mandolin plans in this thread which may be helpful: https://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/t...ans-and-Advice
    I am a luthier specialising in historical and world stringed instruments. You can see more info at my website.

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