Mac McElwain's Discussions

Positioning scarf joint
15 Replies

I like to use an under-the-fingerboard scarf joint when building, but I'm having trouble positioning it right. I always get the tip of the join under the neck right at the point where the headstock…Continue

Started this discussion. Last reply by Andrew Feb 15, 2020.

Dorset Luthier
1 Reply

I'm Mac, a luthier working out of New Zealand, building in NZ native woods. I need help! A UK client has just taken a dreadnought back to England by air and despite being in an substantial case it…Continue

Started this discussion. Last reply by Palle Clausen Dec 16, 2019.

Fingerboards
14 Replies

I'm thrashing around trying to find a good alternative to Indian Rosewood for fingerboards. I bet I'm not alone in this!Does anyone have experience of using Mahogany?I have some in my store and it's…Continue

Started this discussion. Last reply by Mac McElwain Aug 24, 2017.

Making a Baritone guitar
3 Replies

Hello good people,I am about to embark on a Baritone version of some Grand Auditorium-sized acoustics that I have made. I'm wondering what views you might have on how I should beef up the…Continue

Started this discussion. Last reply by Andrew Jan 17, 2016.