Daily Archives: September 20, 2019

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New Viola – part 4 (the scroll)

Instrument Making

This past week, I’ve been working hard on the scroll for this new viola!

I use the bandsaw to cut out the outline of the scroll. I like to paste a picture of the model on the wood to give me an accurate guide.
Cutting out the first turn of the scroll.
First turn has been cut, and the area around the pegbox also removed.
Cutting the second turn. Here, we’re running into a bit of trouble – a sap pocket (the brown section).
The sap pocket runs deep and is inconveniently located.
Nothing to be done except replace that side of the scroll.
Luckily, there was plenty of spare wood when cutting the outline. I was able to easily find a piece big enough and with very similar grain to replace that side.
The scroll is rough-carved at this point. Now is when I like to clean out the pegbox. I start by drilling holes to the correct depth, then going at it with a small chisel.
Cleaned up and relaxing with Gillian’s cranes.
The replacement is visible, but not too obvious. I think it adds a bit of character.

View the next article here: New Viola – part 5 (closing the box, fitting the neck)