The next step was to use the old jointer and true up the fretboard side and the headstock. Using the jointer to make sure these surfaces are dead flat and at the correct angle to each other.
Now that the top is flat and perpendicular to the sides, I run the blank through the table saw to cut the groove that will hold the truss rod. Make sure you run it through in both directions to insure that the groove is centered! Then I take the blank to my oscillating spindle sander and true up the back side of the headstock, the rest of the back is still over sized but I will take care of this later. I also draw in the fret board shape with my templates at this time to prepare for the next step.
Now I take the blanks back to the band saw and cut off the excess, being careful to stay +1/16 or so outside the lines. This gives me a rough blank that is starting to look like a neck!
Thats it for now, stay tunned for the next episode of "The Making of a Somerset"! Will neck blank #1 finally find true love? Will neck blank #5 tell the group it's big secret? Will neck blank #2 be kicked out of the shop? You'll just have to tune in next time to find out!
I've got a Somerset S-5 coming my way, so I'll see how well these necks play. I know who's neck to wring if they don't.