Marshwood Flagship Model

After about three years of designing, trial and error(s) a "standard" model prototype is in the works. Once completed the photos and videos will follow.

Marshwood Acoustic, The Finishing Stages

After applying lacquer to the instrument and letting it sit for a few weeks the time has come to level the finish with sandpaper. Here if the coat looks good you can go on to buff. Or in this case I need to apply a couple more coats (small pits and voids). The guitar will sit for another two/three weeks and will be leveled again. Can't wait to hear this one. The close-up photo shows the detail of the flame maple.

The Rufus has a new home.

From Sketch To Reality

Been working a lot on The Rufus this week. Dressed the frets and put in the electronics. Just a few things to tight up and she is done. When building a guitar from a sketch like this the challenges run high. This has been one of the most complex designs to bring into fruition but has also been rewarding. Hopefully, Dr. Rufus will like it.

The Rufus, Truss Rod Cover Plate

The truss rod is made of steel and runs the length of the neck. Its purpose is to allow some adjustability of the neck action. One can adjust the neck tension with an allen wrench at the headstock. This hole in the headstock must be covered with a plate. This one is made of ebony and has been routed to say, "Dr. Rehfuss," the future owner of this guitar. Silver has been filed down to fill the letter cavities. Then, with the glue dried sanded off and shaped into the truss rod cover. These shots show the process:

The Rufus, Tailpiece

After designing and building a prototype tailpiece for the Rufus (which did not work) I made some changes and began again. This one is going to be both light and strong. A jig was taped to a piece of mahogany and was then cut out. I drilled holes for the future strings. To give it a matching look with the headstock, bridge, etc. a veneer of ebony was then glued to the top. Once dried the ebony was cut away leaving the rough bridge. The next step will be to shape to thickness and add some brass which will ground the strings to the endpin jack.

Roy Ponce and his Marshwood in action at Summer Camp 2010!

Roy Ponce rippin' his custom Marshwood with Brainchild (www.brainchildjam.com) at Summer Camp Music Festival. That's Roy jamming with Jake of Umphrey's McGee preforming the song Resolution at Summer Camp Late Night.