Neck templates


Another method, that is safer for the neck, is to use a simple length of copper wire. Regular 14 gauge household wire is perfect.	Wrap the wire tightly around the neck, forming it until it fits perfectly. It is sometimes necessary to bend it free-hand to make it fit, but it doesn't take much skill to do.	Now, take the wire, and trace the outline onto some stiff, thin cardboard. The cardboard from a case of Pepsi or coke works fine, as will poster board stock.

Cut carefully on the line with scissors.	Check it for fit....	.And trim a little at a time until the fit is as perfect as you can get it.

Once a perfect fit is realized, mark off both edges of the fretboard. VERY important!	Tah-dah! I need one from the first fret, and one from the ninth.	Just as important, if not more important, is to accurately measure the neck's depth in between the 1st and 2nd frets, and the 9th and 10th. I use a micrometer, but a caliper will do just as well. A machine shop, school, or even your local repairman can help with this.

And lastly, I'll need the width at the nut, and at the 9th fret, again, as accurately as possible.		Previous page

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