The sound board has enough flexibility to it that it will conform to the shape of the bowl if clamped properly all the way around. The sound board is usually mounted to the bowl with a little over-hang. Once the glue has set the sound board is carefully trimmed flush to the outside edge of the union of the bowl and the sound board. Then some Lute makers will add an edge trim that is cut into the top edge of the sound board with a special plane, some makers leave this edge pristine.
Vance Wood. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Herbert Ward" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Friday, December 19, 2003 8:16 AM Subject: Woodworking precision. > > The joint where my soundboard is set into the bowl is perfect. Around the > entire perimeter, it is so tight there is no visible crack. I also > checked with a bright light and a strong magnifying glass. Same story. > > How do lute makers achieve such precision in joining two pieces of wood > along a long complex shape? > >
