Making a radius sanding block
The radius sanding block is an essential tool when you want to make an arched fingerboard on a string instrument.
Here is how I proceed to make one, whatever the radius is :
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Rough cut of each of the 16 pieces, on the band saw.. |
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I first drill the left side hole of each piece. Then I use this little fixture in order to be sure that the second hole is precisely drilled always the same distance away from the first, on each piece. This is important to align later the stack of pieces in a straight way.
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The principle of indexing on the fixture, a little 8mm diameter aluminium post, fixed on the plate, which is fixed on the drill press table. The drill bit is set upon the second hole. |
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The first piece is given a couple of aluminium posts and will then serve a s a template for all other 15 pieces. I use a copying rooter bit to replicate the pieces. |
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In action, just for the picture. |
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Actually, with protections. |
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16 pieces finished and aligned. |
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After removing the paper template, I stack all the glued pieces on to a couple of aluminium poles, 8 mm diameter. I often prefer aluminium than steel, because the diameters are always more precise and it is also stiffer than steel. |
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Check the alignement. |
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Clamping flat on a the table of my band saw. |
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Once dry, I sand the little bumps with a foam block (actually a mouse foam pad). The sole is straight and the curve is nice. Ready to use ! |
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The top / handle. Can be enhanced with a laquer finish. |
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