Instrument details: Jim Carfrae - Steel string acoustic

Joining the figured walnut back with hide glue

Photo added on 28/02/2026

Jim is using a piece of yew salvaged from a fallen tree for the rosette, bridge and headstock veneer

Photo added on 28/02/2026

After fitting the rosette in the cedar top the soundhole is cut out

Photo added on 28/02/2026

Gluing the back braces

Photo added on 28/02/2026

We have a jig for planing the curve the x-braces, a job that can also be done freehand

Photo added on 28/02/2026

Jim has opted against using an adjustable truss rod, preferring to reinforce the maple neck with a carbon fibre rod

Photo added on 28/02/2026

Bending the walnut sides

Photo added on 28/02/2026

Time to glue the back and close the box

Photo added on 28/02/2026

Planing the fumed laburnum fingerboard to dimension. Jim has opted against using exotic woods for the entire build

Photo added on 28/02/2026

Fitting the mother of pearl side dots

Photo added on 28/02/2026

Jim's finished guitar, cased up and ready to go

Photo added on 28/02/2026

The flamed walnut back

Photo added on 28/02/2026