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Sitka top too thin?
http://www.luthiersforum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=10101&t=26030		 Page 1 of 1
Author:  Gtrman13 [ Fri Feb 12, 2010 4:28 pm ]
Post subject:  Sitka top too thin?
I just used wagner safe-t planer for the first time to thickness 3 sitka spruce soundboards. My goal was to have the final thicknesses at 2.8 mm, but I guess my inexperience with this tool showed and it took the thickness down to 2.5 mm in a few places. Keep in mind this is before final sanding which should take off a tad bit more. Is this too thin? They seem like they're a tiny bit floppy to me, but I'm no expert on the subject. Are these things workable/salvageable or should I scrap them and start over with new pieces? They'll be used on an L-00 shaped guitar, if it matters.
Author:  woody b [ Fri Feb 12, 2010 4:40 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sitka top too thin?
I've used Sitka thinner than that. (2.5 mm is ~.100" isn't it?) It depends on the stiffness of the individual top.
Author:  Hesh [ Fri Feb 12, 2010 4:48 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sitka top too thin?
What Woody said - it's about .098425... :D which could work for an L-OO. Just be careful during rosette installation and final sanding to not remove much additional material.

BTW the "They seem like they're a tiny bit floppy to me" is great to read/hear. Never miss out on an opportunity to flex the wood and start to get a feel for what works and what doesn't... Even though we use more objective criteria such as deflection testing I always wanted to be the sort of builder who had a "feel" for the wood just like I imagined the Luthiers in the past did.

Good on you for using your own senses - they are one of the most powerful tools that you can ever use.
Author:  Mike Collins [ Fri Feb 12, 2010 4:51 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sitka top too thin?
For a small body guitar like the L-OO .100 (2.5)is fine .
What guage string do you plan to brace it for?

Mike
Author:  Steve Saville [ Fri Feb 12, 2010 5:07 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sitka top too thin?
That's a bit thicker than I'd go - I'd be closer to 2.0mm. I use my own design of lattice bracing and a large bridge plate. I like a floppy top.
YMMV
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