Some tips for electric guitar kit builders
The glue in Guitar Neck
Unfortunately there are numerous things that will go bad when setting the neck on electric guitar kits. Most kits such as saga kits are of the bolt on type and this will help you stay out of trouble most of the time (though you do still need to make sure your alignment is set properly). But if your neck is a glue in model you need to get your scale length correct and make sure you are using a suitable glue. Scale length is crucial, we wont go into detail here re: getting the scale length correct but needless to say if you are unsure of how to set scale length you should research the topic further.
As far as an acceptable glue to set your electric guitar kit neck stick to Titebond or something of a similar nature and make sure you use timber blocks when clamping to avoid damaging the neck. Dependent on the glue you use you should let the neck sit for no less than 12-24 hours and don’t forget to only use as much glue as you need. If you use too much glue there’s a strong chance you’ll have residual glue between the neck and cavity which can impact your sustain, you should be aiming towards neck against body timber.
Cutting your Headstock
Start with the end in mind. E.g. Have a template ready to go and transfer the shape you desire onto the electric guitar kit headstock before cutting the timber using something non permanent e.g. Carpenters pencil. Make sure when you do begin cutting that you stay well and truly on the exterior of the marking as it is always simpler to adjust inwards than mend a cut made too close to the edge.
Once pleased with your shape start sanding back using a rough gauge sandpaper or file and work your way down to a light gauge sand paper. Have patience and think about your profile not just the edge of the headstock and you will end up with a superb end product.
We cover every aspect of electric guitar kits at eguitarkits.com. Click here for more tips on assembling guitar kits and some comprehensive resources for staining and painting the finished product.