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Template and Jig Question
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Author:  Josh Duke [ Thu Oct 28, 2010 6:12 pm ]
Post subject:  Template and Jig Question
Hey everyone!

I'm starting to get all my templates, jigs, and tools in order to start my first build(s). I want to make some "master" templates for things out of 1/8" steel so that when my jigs, etc. wear out, I have something to work from that is super accurate. I have someone who will cut anything I need with a CNC plasma cutter for free. I also have another friend with access to a CNC laser. In the templates, jigs, and tools department, what would be wise to have made? Right now, I am just getting some bridge and headstock shapes cut, both full size and with various offsets for making certain jigs. I'm also going to have a template for tracing out the rough neck shape on billets, some for cutting pre-profiled sides, as well as some for tops and backs (regular, venetian cutaway, and florentine cutaway).

With all the experience and hindsight on this forum, I was hoping that I could get some pointers for what is important to have on hand for these types of things. Price is not a concern, as this is all being done for free of charge.

Thanks in advance!

Josh
Author:  runamuck [ Thu Oct 28, 2010 6:25 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Template and Jig Question
I have two suggestions:

* Hold off on making jigs out of anything too time consuming until you're sure about the design. Complete at least
one instrument to iron out the wrinkles.

* Make your jigs out of aluminum - not steel. It's light, it doesn't rust (and so won't stain your work if slightly damp),
and it's plenty durable enough.
Author:  Tom West [ Thu Oct 28, 2010 6:49 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Template and Jig Question
Templates made from acrylic resin for the guitar profile,head plate and bridge shapes provide the benefit of viewing the grain. And I agree with runamuck in the use of AL over steel. Good luck on your adventure into the mysterious world of guitar building.
Tom
Author:  Josh Duke [ Thu Oct 28, 2010 7:04 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Template and Jig Question
Thanks for the replies so far!

Good call on the waiting to iron out wrinkles and design tweeks.

The only reason for steel is because that it the material that I have available with the plasma cutter, which I have easier access to than the laser. I'm not too concerned with rust as I will be storing them in a way to prevent it as much as possible. Weight is not too much of an issue since I will only occasionally be using them when jigs/templates wear out.

Tom - as far as the actual templates to be used on wood, they will be made from clear materials; the metal will serve as masters for remaking the daily use templates when they wear or when I inadvertently destroy them through user error. ;-)

Thanks again and keep 'em coming!!!!
Author:  Rod True [ Thu Oct 28, 2010 7:29 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Template and Jig Question
I use to work for a steel fab company and found out very quickly that plasma cut parts are not nearly accurate enough for guitar making. Laser or Water jet would be the only thing I'd go for, or CNC router. The plasma edge just won't be smooth enough and when you want to hold a tolerance of 1/32" or better, it just doesn't happen with plasma cut parts (in my experience).

Build at least 2 or 3 guiats before you decide your shapes. I've made 9 guitars now and just on the last one I finalized my headstock shape.

My $0.025 (canadian you know ;) )

Oh and I highly doubt that even a wood templete would wear out in a lifetime of buiding. And if you get to the place of master maker, making 40+ guitars a year, I'll bet you'll be using a CNC to cut out some of those shapes.
Author:  Josh Duke [ Fri Oct 29, 2010 6:36 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Template and Jig Question
Wow! Good to know about the plasma cutter! I'll definitely have to go with the laser, then.

I'm also going to wait until after at least 10 builds; everything looks good on paper, but we all know how that can pan out in real life. :shock:

Thanks for the insight and for taking the time to respond; it's much appreciated. It's easy to get to excited about building and overlook so many things - regardless of how many years you've been planning. :D
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