With the body primed, it’s time to rout for the binding. The dimension for the width of the binding is easy enough, but getting the cut correct for the thickness can be challenging…
I take a ¾ inch pattern tracing bit, and use precision brass tubing over the bearing until the cut is correct.
That coupled with “fine tuning” with aluminum tape fives me exactly the cut I’m looking for.
If using this method, slow progression is necessary to prevent chipping of the sealer/coot coat.
I’m ready to begin….
I start with the ¾ inch curve at the top of the neck. I pre warm the binding to facilitate bending. I do so by holding the binding with my fingers in the heat stream, this prevents me from allowing it to get too hot. The binding virtually melts at relatively low temperature.
Once it becomes pliable, I form the binding to match the curve, apply a bit of glue, and using the highly specialized tool, it comes in a set of various sizes, I clamp the curved section and tape it securely an in inch or so down stream. I’ll wait a few minutes for it to dry/cure.. I’m using CA here.
Ron Kirn