Australian/New Zealand Luthiers Forum

My research says that they will grow, but they'd rather be further north in more arid zones. Yes we've been getting heaps of rain, I'll take anything that helps !

The cheapest way to get tonewoods is to grow it yourself ! I'm lucky enough to have the space to do it, 6 acres in South Gippsland. I've got some Silver Wattle growing, the Bunya Pine didn't make it, and now I'm giving Rosewood a go. I found the best way to grow it from seed ( I couldn't find tubers...

Hi Daniel,
I love that you are building with your son. My Dad was my inspiration for woodworking, and I hope that my granddaughter will build with me when she is old enough !
Enjoy your build, cheers, Alex.

Thank you Trent and Alan, yes I think I've found my passion. I've been working with wood all my life, but there's something magical about bringing a guitar into the world ! Cheers.

Thanks Richard, I'm also a Bach fan and love the lower end. I'm drawn to harp guitars for that extra bass and also love the look of them. Once I get competent at regular guitars, I'll give it a go !
Cheers, Alex.

Martin I tried to get a photo which shows what I mean, it's there but hard to photograph. It's the topwood, there are flat spots where the wood 'looks thirstier' that in other places, but perhaps I am being fussy ! Mark I feel the same, by the time I get to finishing the instrument, I want it finish...

Thanks Martin ! I'm using U-beaut hard shellac and Robbie O'Briens french polishing course. No 2 came up well build 2.jpeg but that was about 2 years ago and I'm using the same bottle. I did test it and it did set ( over about 3 days ), would the age of the shellac affect the finish, or is it just m...

Hello all, am writing to introduce myself, I have been checking out this forum for some time, so thanks for having me ! I have built 5 guitars over 5 years but hope to build more than 10 within 1 year ! I have a love for recycled timbers and enjoy the challenge of turning them into viable instrument...