When it comes to binding the neck of a guitar, one of the most important tools you’ll need is a curved ruler. This specialized measuring device allows you to accurately mark the shape of the neck, ensuring that the binding will fit perfectly. Using a curved ruler is essential for achieving a professional-looking finish on your guitar, and it’s a relatively simple process that can be mastered with a little practice.
The first step is to position the curved ruler on the neck of the guitar. The ruler should be aligned with the edge of the fretboard, and the curve of the ruler should match the curve of the neck. Once the ruler is in place, use a pencil or other marking tool to trace the shape of the neck onto the binding material. Be sure to mark the exact location of the fretboard edge, as this will be used to align the binding later on.
After you’ve marked the shape of the neck, you can cut the binding material to size. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the binding material along the marked lines. Once the binding is cut, you can apply it to the neck of the guitar. Start by applying a thin layer of glue to the neck, then carefully position the binding in place. Use a clamp or other weight to hold the binding in place while the glue dries. Once the glue has dried, you can remove the clamp and trim any excess binding material. With a little practice, you’ll be able to use a curved ruler to achieve a perfect fit for the binding on your guitar neck.
Measuring the Neck
- Mark the center of the neck back. This can be done by folding the back in half lengthwise and aligning the edges. Mark the center point with a pencil or chalk.
- Measure the distance from the center of the neck back to the lower bout. This measurement will determine the length of the neck binding.
- Measure the width of the neck at the nut. This measurement will determine the width of the binding at the nut.
- Measure the width of the neck at the heel. This measurement will determine the width of the binding at the heel.
- Transfer the measurements to the curved ruler. Start by marking the center of the ruler with a pencil or chalk. Then, measure and mark the distance from the center to the lower bout. Next, measure and mark the width of the neck at the nut and heel.
- Draw the curve of the neck. Using a French curve or a flexible ruler, draw a smooth curve connecting the marks you made in step 5. This curve will be the shape of the neck binding.
Here is a table summarizing the measurements you need to take:
| Measurement | How to Measure |
|---|---|
| Neck length | From the center of the neck back to the lower bout |
| Binding width at nut | Width of the neck at the nut |
| Binding width at heel | Width of the neck at the heel |
How To Use A Curved Ruler For Neck Binding
A curved ruler is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including neck binding. When used correctly, a curved ruler can help you create a smooth, even curve that will perfectly follow the contours of your neck. Here are the steps on how to use a curved ruler for neck binding:
- Place the curved ruler on the neck of the guitar, aligning the center of the ruler with the center of the neck.
- Hold the ruler in place with one hand and use the other hand to trace the curve of the neck with a pencil.
- Once you have traced the curve, remove the ruler and connect the pencil marks with a straight line.
- Use the straight line as a guide to cut the binding material.
- Apply the binding material to the neck of the guitar, following the curve that you have created.
- Once the binding material is in place, use a clamp to hold it in place while the glue dries.
People Also Ask
How do you measure the radius of a neck?
To measure the radius of a neck, you will need a curved ruler. Place the curved ruler on the neck of the guitar, aligning the center of the ruler with the center of the neck. Hold the ruler in place and use a pencil to trace the curve of the neck. Once you have traced the curve, remove the ruler and measure the distance between the two pencil marks. This distance is the radius of the neck.
What is the best type of binding material to use for a neck?
The best type of binding material to use for a neck is one that is flexible and durable. Some good options include plastic, wood, and metal. Plastic binding material is the most affordable and easiest to work with, but it is not as durable as wood or metal. Wood binding material is more durable than plastic, but it is also more expensive and difficult to work with. Metal binding material is the most durable, but it is also the most expensive and difficult to work with.
How do you apply binding material to a neck?
To apply binding material to a neck, you will need to first prepare the neck by sanding it smooth. Once the neck is sanded, apply a thin layer of glue to the neck. Then, place the binding material on the neck, following the curve that you have created. Once the binding material is in place, use a clamp to hold it in place while the glue dries.
