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 a suitable glue to set your electric guitar kit neck stick to Titebond or something of a similar nature and ensure you use timber blocks when clamping to avoid damaging the neck. Depending on the glue you use you must let the neck sit for a minimum of 12-24 hours and remember to only use as much glue as you need. If you use too much glue there is a strong chance you will have leftover glue in between the neck and cavity which can have an effect on your sustain, you ought to be aiming for neck against body timber.
Cutting your Headstock
Begin with the end in mind. E.g. Have a template good to go and transfer the shape you need onto the electric guitar kit headstock before cutting the timber using something non-permanent e.g. Carpenters pencil. Ensure when you do start to cut that you stay well and truly on the outside of the marking as it is always easier to adjust inwards than fix a cut made too near to the edge.
Once happy with your shape start sanding back employing a coarse gauge sandpaper or file and work your way down to a light gauge sand paper. Show patience and consider your contours not simply the edge of the headstock and you'll finish up with a great result.
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 a suitable glue to set your electric guitar kit neck stick to Titebond or something of a similar nature and ensure you use timber blocks when clamping to avoid damaging the neck. Depending on the glue you use you must let the neck sit for a minimum of 12-24 hours and remember to only use as much glue as you need. If you use too much glue there is a strong chance you will have leftover glue in between the neck and cavity which can have an effect on your sustain, you ought to be aiming for neck against body timber.
Cutting your Headstock
Begin with the end in mind. E.g. Have a template good to go and transfer the shape you need onto the electric guitar kit headstock before cutting the timber using something non-permanent e.g. Carpenters pencil. Ensure when you do start to cut that you stay well and truly on the outside of the marking as it is always easier to adjust inwards than fix a cut made too near to the edge.
Once happy with your shape start sanding back employing a coarse gauge sandpaper or file and work your way down to a light gauge sand paper. Show patience and consider your contours not simply the edge of the headstock and you'll finish up with a great result.
About the Author:
We cover every aspect of electric guitar kits at eguitarkits.com. Click here for more tips on assembling guitar kits and some good resources for staining and painting the finished product.
