Official Luthiers Forum!

Hey guys,
Can someone explain how to do the side perflings on a classical guitar with Spanish Slipper?

I have an idea but am not sure how do you get the binding and perfling under the heel. The Spanish Slipper is the first thing to install before the sides (or along with) so how are the channels cut. (my guess is with a chisel by hand).

Is there a better way?

Here is a pic of what I am talking about.

Thanks,
Bob

There's no trick or tool for it that I'm aware of. Just nibble your way in with a knife and tiny chisel. Side purflings should be glued to the binding before bending so they make no difference to the installation process.

I like the finish on that guitar. That's the sweet spot I aim for where the pores are partially filled but not leveled and surface is not matte but not high gloss either.

Thanks Dennis,
I figured there were no tricks to cutting those channels right up to the heel, but was hoping...

Yea, I love the looks of the finish on it as well, I guess that is what 200 years will do to wood.

I restored a 1964 Gibson LG0 and removed the Ladder bracing and put in X bracing. I finished it in nitro but left about 50% of the grain open on the sides and back. I then dulled the finish by using steel wool until it was a nice satin finish. That was over 15 years ago and it still looks as good today.

Thanks for the answer Dennis,

Cheers,
Bob

The first 10 instruments were Spanish style heels. The purfling and binding behind the heel. Was always a pain. That's why I switched to a bolt on neck. What Dennis said, a knife and chisel. Make sure your tools are very sharp. Will make your life much easier.

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Thanks David,

This is a first with side perflings so it should be fun.

I am pretty much old school, I much prefer hand planes and chisels and keep them sharp and ready.

Thanks again,
Bob