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Hello,
I would like to know what is considered minimum dimensions for lining thickness. I tried solid linings for the first time this weekend on a cutaway, using two sets of offcuts. The first set went in fine, but the second set was very difficult and took some persuading with clamps to join nicely due to the tighter curves caused by going inwards ( I hope that makes sense). Does anybody use just a single thickness?
Thanks...

A lot of classicals have use single layer solid linings for the back, bent to fit the plantilla. I use solid laminated linings in all of my guitars, both classical and steel string, using four 1mm laminations, these are laminated together cold in a mould for each body shape.


Linings in the mould


Removed from the mould


Close up when glued in at the waist.


Glued in to the sides.

Colin

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I don't believe in anything, I simply make use of a set of reasonable working hypotheses.

Colin what woods do you typically use for your laminated linings?

Edward, typically spruce for the top ones and cedrela or mahogany for the back ones, though any of the normal lining woods would be fine.

Colin

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I don't believe in anything, I simply make use of a set of reasonable working hypotheses.

I've used kerf-less linings (mahogany) on my last 2 steel strings. I stole the method of construction from Colin...thanks, Bro!

I noticed the difference in stiffness and like what I heard. It's a bit more work but I'm in no hurry.

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JJ
Napa, CA
http://www.DonohueGuitars.com

I have used 5 mm wide willow for solid linings, bent on a hot pipe. No problem on a 000'ish shape, not sure how it would work for a tight cutaway, I suspect thinner laminates would be easier.

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Rian Gitar og Mandolin

Thanks all...
Arnt, is that a solid piece of 5mm wood you're bending?
Also, here's a general offshoot question.
Do you really think it make a difference how stiff the linings are? I can see how it makes a difference while the sides are just a frame, but once the top and back are on, won't they act as the ultimate stiffeners? I wonder how much the lining could affect the box at all at that point. See what I mean?

I use 5-6 mm poplar bent on a hot pipe.

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Ken Franklin
clumsy yet persistent
https://www.kenfranklinukulele.com

Solid linings rarely sit flat after bending. Usually there are a few areas where you will have to scrape the mating surface flat. If you do get any slight gaps then simply fill it with a shaving of the same wood - for practical purposes it becomes invisible.

Yes, they are solid.

To the "offshoot question"... We've had this discussion before, and although I remember I was in the minority in that debate, I agree with you: once the top and back are glued on, they lock the position of kerfed linings, and I really don't think it makes a whole lot of difference if they (the linings) are kerfed or not. I sure can't tell any difference, the closed box feels just as rigid, and I don't know how you'd measure, or even test, how it influences the sound of the guitar. Anyways, I've not seen anything but a whole lot of opinions and anecdotal evidence about it, so as in most things we do people will believe what they want to believe.

I can however confirm that the open rim is very stiff with the solid linings in place, and it makes such a clean looking interior, just look at Ken's picture, wow!

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Rian Gitar og Mandolin

I suspect solid linings, and stiffer rims could help with the tendency of the top to fold in at the neck block, and also help with the tendency of the back to straighten out at the neck block. I haven't done it, I'm just kinda thinking with my keyboard.

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I didn't mean to say it, but I meant what I said.
http://www.brackettinstruments.com/