I feel it is a good way to get an affordable master craft instrument into an aspiring musicians hand. I am continuing to put together the A model mandolin I have been working on for a special musician. I am cutting the side down to a good height that will have good air volume with the inside.
I like to carve the top and back by hand so that I can feel what the wood wants to do. The arching height may be different depending on the piece of wood. Each piece has its own personality. Saying all that, I make my sides at different heights within the range of a few millimeters. Because the tops and backs may have a different height, when all is assembled, the volume inside should resonate a D. The f hole size makes a difference too.
The tone bars are now shaped and the plates are tuned. I have also been finishing up some detail work on the F5.
I will probabally put the final coat of varnish on today...busy....busy....busy. I am very happy with the color!
I thought I'd post these pics my son took the other day of a red-tailed hawk just outside of the workshop. It moved from tree to tree.. fun to watch.
Take Care,
Martin