LP Scratch build

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martin manning
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by martin manning »

There is some stuff that is used to blend and adhere water slide decals. A quick search reminds me that the stuff is of two kinds, and is sold under the brand names Micro Sol and Micro Set, and there is another product called Solvaset. Maybe check out places the cater to plastic model builders, which include people who make game characters.
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Structo
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by Structo »

Man that thing is looking AWESOME!
I can't wait to see it when it's all done.

Decals can be tricky and depend heavily on the type of decal paper is used.

Some are better than others.

Things to watch for:
Don't soak it too long in the water, it will wash away the glue.
I dunk it in lukewarm water for just a few seconds the take out and lay it
on a paper towel to let it rest until it can slide off.

If it is a homemade inkjet decal, you have to spray with a light clear coat to protect the ink printed on the decal since it is water soluble.

Cut out the decal after the clear coat has dried.

You can use 'decal set' or other types of solutions that pertain to decals.
They generally are made to soften the decal to allow it to conform to non flat surfaces.

Carefully slide the decal onto the object.
Position it where you want and gently push air bubbles out with tissue or soft cloth.

I think when things look a bit hazy or white under the decal, most of the glue was probably washed off during immersion in the water and won't glue down good.

You should let the decal dry undisturbed for 24 hours or so.

If you want to lacquer over the decal to conceal the edges of the decal, do light coats of clear until sufficient depth to conceal the edges.
Usually at least 6 coats.

After the lacquer has dried hard, water sand with a block and polish as usual.

You probably know all this but thought some others might benefit from it.
Tom

Don't let that smoke out!
telentubes
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by telentubes »

I wasn't able to salvage the "Les Paul" so I sanded it off. Sad to see it go but it's the price of tuition sometimes. I only had the one that a friend gave me, so
I'll move on with just the MOP inlay. Itching to get this thing strung up as I've been working on it since October.
Thanks for the tips though.
telentubes
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by telentubes »

It's done.
The last thing I did was wire in the caps before stringing it up with .010s.
I bought 3 sets of .022 PIO caps. Two Russian surplus pairs (K42Y-2 and K40Y-9) and a pair of new stock "Vitamin Ts" from Mojo.
I started with the NOS Russian K40Y-9s and will see how they sound.
Eventually I'll find some affordable Bumblebees.

The neck pickup pot measures 510K.
The bridge pickup pot measures 490K.
The tone pots are 520K and 530K.

I'm working on pickup height and getting used to the JM Rolph 59 Humbuckers (I've been playing a tele forever).
So far, I am very very happy with the pickups, and guitar in general. Glad to be done.
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telentubes
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by telentubes »

Finished LP project.
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cbass
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by cbass »

Its beautiful.
DLR is a Captain beefheart wannabe
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rp
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by rp »

When anyone asks about your Gibby Custom Shop LP, you get to say, "yup, very custom shop, I made it" and watch their jaw hit the floor.
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martin manning
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by martin manning »

Wow, that is just fantastic! Thanks for sharing the journey.
telentubes
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by telentubes »

Thank you everyone!
If there are any questions about steps along the way, I'm glad to assist. I have lots more photos with more detail.
Forgot to mention that it weighs in at 8LBS 1 OZ.
Last two pics.
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Structo
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by Structo »

SWEET! :D

That looks very nice indeed!

I'll bet it plays and sounds awesome.
Tom

Don't let that smoke out!
vibratoking
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by vibratoking »

I'm jealous and envious of your talents. You created a piece of art.
Electronic equipment is designed using facts and mathematics, not opinion and dogma.
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Structo
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by Structo »

So after a few months how is this new guitar shaking out?

I have threatened to build a set neck guitar but I always chicken out when I add the $$.
Tom

Don't let that smoke out!
telentubes
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by telentubes »

Tom,
Thanks for asking.
It's the guitar I play 90% of the time. I'm in a new routine of getting to work, 6 A.M.ish, just so I can play the LP for an hour or two before the others arrive. The 50 Watt Small Special has been the amp of choice with the LP for quite a while. Heavenly tones.
The guitar is completely versatile, and covers all my playing styles with ease. I had no idea. The design is a masterpiece.
Put my first big ding in the top a few days ago. It's only new once.
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rooster
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by rooster »

Wow, I just tripped over this post today and I am stunned at the quality of your workmanship here, telentubes. Truly an insane project from my point of view and I am in awe of your results. Beautiful work!!
Most people stall out when fixing a mistake that they've made. Why?
Geeze
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Re: LP Scratch build

Post by Geeze »

Kudos to you on this build! Your attention to detail is magnificent.

I've built some bodies but the neck and the finish [did one auto clear / wet sand - holy crap not a task for the impatient!] always scare me off. Maybe in a couple of years when I have nothing else to build.

Russ
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