I have received some inquiries over time as to whether I would make a cut-away instrument, to allow better access to the upper frets. Well … I have never really liked the looks of a cut-away and it greatly increases the complexity of the build. Also, being a non-player, who needs those upper frets anyway? I did have some more detailed discussions this last winter with a real player, and it seems that on a smaller instrument like a ukulele all that would be required is a ‘scoop’ to allow the side of one’s hand space so the fingers could get to the upper frets. Something like:
After doing a bit of research and video watching, I am attempting my first scoop on an experimental concert. To make a scoop, using one method, one shapes a block of wood to fit the inside of the upper bout and glues it to the sides. Then the top of the block is leveled along with the rest of the side linings. Meanwhile, the top has been cut out for the scoop. Once the top is glued on, the top purfling is added along the top edge, some spacer wood is added, and then the scoop is hollowed out by cutting into the block glued on the inside. Finally a nice bit of fancy wood veneer is put down on the surface of the scoop.
Here is the start. Block glued in, top cut out but not glued down yet. Just for illustrative purposes.
