Hatcher High Figure Koa Penelope Sisters - Steel String and a Nylon Crossover

[Mark Hatcher]

Originally Posted by architype

Mark,

Is that dowel form jig adjustable for different body shapes? If so, is this your invention? I've never seen one like that and it piqued my quriosity.

Yes, it is adjustable. I typically use this mould for one-offs and experimentals.
In this case I'm building two guitars of the same body shape. So it comes in handy as a spare.
I didn't invent it. These have been around for a long time. I'm not sure who made the first one, but everyone has a few of their own twists. If you decide to make one contact me. I don't mind sharing my twists.

Thanks

[drcmusic7]

I love the smell of Spanish cedar. Looks great, Mark!

Kindly,
Danny

[Mark Hatcher]

Originally Posted by drcmusic7

I love the smell of Spanish cedar. Looks great, Mark!

Kindly,
Danny

Thanks!

Years ago I was watching a tape on Bob Benidetto and he was saying he likes to use Spanish Cedar kerfing so that years later when someone opens their guitar case they will get that whiff of cedar and I thought "Yes, that's just something a guitar should come with!".

Mark

[Mark Hatcher]

Hello,

I'd like to write a little bit about end blocks,



I am usually working at removing extra weight on my guitar models, but this is one place where some weight can be a real benefit. This is the best spot to counter the weight of the neck to create a well balanced guitar. When set up correctly the guitar will balance on your leg with no need to hold up the head while playing.
Plus extra weight here helps give a little more sustain without sacrificing volume or tone.







On the Penelope a block of Mahogany works well because I'm only countering a 12 fret neck. On my other models I'll use Walnut or even Cocobolo to get the weight needed. It is important to use a stable wood though, because a cracked end block can be a real pain in the ... bottom of a guitar!

Thanks for following my thread.

[Mark Hatcher]

Setting up the back to be glued on.



A couple clamps.



A lot of clamps.



Back and sides out of mould dry.



Wet.



Thanks for looking.

[arnelson]

WHOOAAA! I was not expecting the curl to be so deep on that! Incredible.

[Mark Hatcher]

Originally Posted by arnelson

WHOOAAA! I was not expecting the curl to be so deep on that! Incredible.

Thanks!

The figure will be even more pronounced when it's under finish.

Mark

[mesa]

Wonderful looking guitar but everything looks to new....where's the sawdust and beat up old tools...

[KolayaGuitars]

this is really an incredible looking guitar! I really love the shape, great work!

[Mark Hatcher]

Originally Posted by mesa

Wonderful looking guitar but everything looks to new....where's the sawdust and beat up old tools...

Thanks Mesa,

I really do try to work clean. It is more efficient, safe, and less distracting that way. There are a couple things I do that really help to keep it clean. For instance, this tuner head laminate I'm working on here is Cocobolo. I have some gorgeous Cocobolo sets in stock but Cocobolo is a sensitizer and the more exposure you have the more likely you'll become allergic to it.



See those holes in my work table? My work table is also a down draft work space. You can see it better in this picture where I'm radiusing a Cocobolo fretboard. Also, the 3/4" holes accept bench dogs which comes in handy.



You can see where the dust collection hose comes in. What you don't see is dust.

[Mark Hatcher]

Originally Posted by KolayaGuitars

this is really an incredible looking guitar! I really love the shape, great work!

Thanks Brad,

This is a very comfortable guitar to play because of that shape. Plus, I think my headstock shape really goes well with it.

Thanks Again!

[Mark Hatcher]

Since I'm making two guitars on this thread and I had a couple comments that my pictures are too clean, I thought on the second back I'd share some dirty pictures





Also a picture of why it's helpful to keep your chisel sharp.



Thanks for viewing!

[mesa]

Originally Posted by Mark Hatcher

Since I'm making two guitars on this thread and I had a couple comments that my pictures are too clean, I thought on the second back I'd share some dirty pictures





Also a picture of why it's helpful to keep your chisel sharp.



Thanks for viewing!

Sweet.....now that's what I'm talking about Mark Nice idea on the down draft table.

[Mark Hatcher]

Originally Posted by mesa

Sweet.....now that's what I'm talking about Mark Nice idea on the down draft table.

Thanks Mesa!

[Billy Boy]

Originally Posted by Mark Hatcher

Since I'm making two guitars on this thread and I had a couple comments that my pictures are too clean, I thought on the second back I'd share some dirty pictures

Dirty pictures...guitar porn...I'm not sure, but I am sure that these are absolutely gorgeous guitars with amazing woods, fine attention to detail, and well thought out in each and every phase. I can't wait to hear the music that Danny pulls from the crossover. You have a keen eye for design, Mr. Hatcher, and a great aesthetic sense. Thank you for sharing your work with us.