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How necessary is the back reinforcement strip being cross grained like lmi sells? I forgot to buy one, thinking I could just cut it out of scrap wood, before I realized that they sold them cross grained. I don't have a piece very long that I can use, and to make it cross grained, I'll have to glue up about 6 pieces for the length of the back? Is this okay?

Thanks,

Sean

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change isn't synonymous with improvement
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Sean: For the strip to be of use it has to be cross grained. No problem gluing up to get your lenght. No need to pay good money for these,just make your own from left overs.
Tom

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A person who has never made a mistake has never made anything!!!

see this thread right above yours -

http://www.luthiersforum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=10101&t=29516

They are called marriage strips as well.....

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It's this new idea from recent decades that everyone gets a participation award. - MUX

I've used strips of spruce with the grain parallel to the back for years. Only difference I've noticed is that now, the center stripes on my backs stay flatter over time. None of those ridges caused by differential movement.

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I believe, I've been told that that's what Romanillos does too. For exactly that reason, if I'm not mistaken.
Cross grain can cause a big differential in expansion and contraction at the joint.

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Waddy

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Wow, thanks for all the tips. I'm so greatful for the internet, and this forum. There are just so many different ways to skin a cat! Thanks to all.

Sean

_________________
change isn't synonymous with improvement
instagram.com/bucketguitars/