Violin Forum/Message Board

[famuswood]

I just got thrown a curve. Instead of a rectangular neck block I got a trapezoid shaped one. I guess I should have looked at the picture a little closer (International Violin Website) For my template I needed a square block. I'm looking for suggestions. All I can think to do is cut a wedge of the same angle and glue it to the maple block. What a pain.

[Andres Sender]

This is normal. You should be able to square up the block at the right width (42 mm typically I think, depends on the model of course). If not, then yeah, you need to add some soft wood and square up with that in place. Be sure there is enough width of original wood in the area of the scroll ears. If not you should return the wood for a replacement.

Don't waste time trying to make perfect wedges to add. Just glue blocks on either side which are big enough to make up the difference and then square the resulting hodgepodge. It won't take long if you use a soft wood even if all you have is a handsaw. Titebond is fine for the gluing since the whole seam will ultimately be waste, so it won't take long to dry.

[famuswood]

I appreciate the feedback. The neck indeed was wide enough to trim down on the tablesaw taking a little off each side until I reached the desired width. There is enough meat on the sides to glue the pattern and rest the board on the band saw. Thanks very much for taking the time to respond.