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Here is a beginner question for you. Are the side braces used to strengthen the sides or mainly to prevent side cracks? I trying to decide what dimensions to make these braces and I'm using sitka spruce. I checked my OLF OM plans but couldn't find info on these braces. I would guess roughly 1/2" wide and 1/8" thick or maybe thinner.

Another question. I've read that some folks inlet the side braces into the lining to limit/prevent a side crack forming along the bottom of the lining. Do you suggest this? Are 4 braces per side about right? I assume positioning isn't critical as long as the spacing is roughly equal.....and symmetrical.

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Formerly known as Adaboy.......

Thanks Todd for that detailed response.....and the pictures are great!

I cut and shaped spruce last night to form these braces and left them at 0.080" - 0.090" thick and 1/2" wide. I was afraid I had thinned them too much. The guitar I'm building is an OM body shape so I will try going with 4 braces per side. I'll inlet them into the lining using a chisel......but they won't extend along the entire width of the sides......but most of the way if I inlet a little over 1/8" into top and back lining.

Anyone see problems if I glue the spruce to the EIR sides using medium CA? Hopefully I want get it on the top of the spruce braces to discolor them.

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Formerly known as Adaboy.......

I started gluing in the side braces last night. I made them 1/2" wide which was a narrower than 2 kerfs on the linig. In hind site, I wish I had made the brace width match the width of 2 kerf openings for a nice snug fit on the sides. Of course I didn't think of that beforehand......maybe I'll try it on the next one.

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Formerly known as Adaboy.......