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I am looking for specs on reverse kerf lining
my first attempt broke on the upper bout curve. It was,
.188 x 5/8, kerf was 1/4" apart & cut to a depth of.155
I'm thinking of putting the kerf about 3/16 apart
started with mahogany but want to use sitka on the top.
Mike McNerney,
Ottawa
looking for other builders in Ottawa?

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Mike McNerney

Your lining size seems fine, about what mine is - but you can cut the kerfs deeper - how floppy is the lining prior to installing - it should flex a fair bit. Another thing I do is as I am about to install, soak the lining inside and out with some water (i spritz it). Let is soak for a minute or so, maybe even spritz some more. Then using a heat gun, as I am getting the lining into the guitars side, I hit the area needing to bend the most with the gun, pushing it into the side as it heats up and starts to flex. You will still get the odd break, but it works much better.

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Tony Karol
www.karol-guitars.com
"let my passion .. fulfill yours"

Here you go, Mike...

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I'd like to be able to prove, just for once, that money wouldn't make me happy...

Don't have my measurements handy, but I leave the rib a good bit thicker than commercial reverse kerf lining (shallower kerfs). Then I bend them in my fox-style bender. Works great and makes for a very stiff rim set.

Peace, Paul