By Ryan Hayes A hole in a rib can be two large pieces connected to the rib, or forty pieces in a plastic bag. Each situation is different, but this article is going to focus on the more complicated situations rather than the simple. Whenever a customer brings a plastic bag containing pieces of their […]
A neck graft is often necessary after a break in the neck, or as frequently occurs in cellos, a break at the neck heel. A neck graft may also be necessary to correct neck measurements, a poorly executed graft, or to modernize a baroque setup. This procedure involves removing any remaining neck pieces from the […]
Rib protectors are commonly found on the upper treble bout rib on violins and cellos. This rib ends up getting more contact with skin because players are touching the rib wile shifting into higher positions. The acidity, natural oils, and sweat wear away the varnish and begin to discolor the wood. Unless you want the […]
Rib Cracks are a common problem on violin family instruments, and cracks running perpendicular to the grain present different challenges than cracks running parallel to the grain. Without the support of parallel grain lines, cracks perpendicular to the grain need more substantial reinforcement. In this article I will go over how to double a rib to […]
Efficiently making and installing cleats to reinforce cracks is a necessary skill for luthiers. This article will discuss the concept of cleating cracks, provide a simple method for making cleat stock, and fitting cleats. This is the first article in a series I will be writing on the subject of cleats and crack reinforcement methods. […]
A neck-reset is a common repair for most shops. In order to do the job properly, a thorough knowledge of the materials and processes involved is required. Because the subject is too large and difficult to comprehend in one sitting, it will be split into multiple parts. Click here to revisit the article, “Resetting a Neck, Part 1” or […]
Removing the top of an instrument is usually essential when work is needed on the inside. If an instrument requires that the top be taken off, it doesn’t mean the damage is more severe, just that the work will benefit from a proper patch or fit reinforcement. Materials Rulers Layout Stickers Glue Palette knife […]
Rib cracks occur because of extreme changes in relative humidity, or from being struck with force by a foreign object. Rib cracks can come in many shapes and forms, and each crack requires a different repair technique. Due to the many different techniques required to repair rib damage, this article will be one of many […]
A neck-reset is a common repair for most shops. In order to do the job properly, a thorough knowledge of the materials and processes involved is required. Because the subject is too large and difficult to comprehend in one sitting, it will be split into multiple parts. Click here to revisit the article, “Resetting a Neck, […]
