I like to think that I got some of my tool-making thought processes from my great-grandfather, who being a blacksmith, made all of his own tools. Incidentally, he's where the Edward in my name comes from, and I knew him well. Most of the family thinks we looked alike. I learned a ton about woodworking from my Dad building banjos, and part of that was just the understanding of how stringed things work, from a mechanical perspective. The guy who I learned the most about instrument repair from is an absolute genius. The jigs he makes are just amazing, and make mine look like crude constructs. Because they are. But I'm getting better.
I got the top back on the Kay bass. Clamps, clamps, everywhere. One of my better rigs, speaking of. I'll leave it cinched up for a day or so to set, then get back to final fit on the dovetail joint. I will be glad to see this one leave the hospital.
Then I jumped the setup job on the aforementioned HD-35. Simple job... just adjust the action, clean up, and restring. It's all done and ready to go back. Mighty fine guitar. HD-35's aren't all that common. It is a 'souped-up' variation on Martin's D-35. It came with the upgrade to herringbone trim, zipper backstrip(s) and scalloped bracing of the HD-28, but retains the rest of standard Style 35 trim and appointments. Three-piece rosewood back, matched sides, spruce top, bound fingerboard, 'stacked' purfling, 1/4" braces, ebony fingerboard and bridge. They are a very warm mellow guitar that it's hard to go wrong with. This one is especially good after a setup.
