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Clay dot inlays.

tplyons

tplyons

Apr 6, 2003
18,766
93
39
Madison, NJ
#1
I know they were used by Fender up until 1964 on rosewood boards, and I assume they changed them for something more durable, but what exactly were they made outta?

Were they like lumps of clay jammed in the hole and sanded, or were they just like pearloid dots that are cut from a sheet? Does anyone still use them today?

Just a bunch of curiosity right now. Love the nice subtle look they give.
 
#2
The clay was a hard material that was stick form.
About 12-13 years ago Bass Player had an article where they featured a mid 60's LPB Jazz getting restored that some one had Jaco-ized, the owner ripped out the frets and dots.
They showed a picture of the repairman jamming a round clay stick in the holes and using a jewelers saw to cut it. If a repairman has it, it's probably something available from the places like Stewmac.

I still have that issue here somewhere.
 
#3
Caca de Kick said:
The clay was a hard material that was stick form.
About 12-13 years ago Bass Player had an article where they featured a mid 60's LPB Jazz getting restored that some one had Jaco-ized, the owner ripped out the frets and dots.
They showed a picture of the repairman jamming a round clay stick in the holes and using a jewelers saw to cut it. If a repairman has it, it's probably something available from the places like Stewmac.

I still have that issue here somewhere.
Click to expand...
Would you be so kind to scan and email it to me? tim at tplyons dot com
 
#5
I use them!

When I made my '64 Telecaster' I bought a set or two from Callaham and sent them out to Tommy at USACG. He asked for 2 sets worth, as he'd never worked with them and was afraid they'd break. The side markers came as thin rods that you can slice off, and the dots themselves are a chalky, yet hard grey substance. Clay is about right.

I see that USACG now carries them as an option. :)
 
#14
BurningSkies said:
I bought a set or two from Callaham and sent them out to Tommy at USACG. He asked for 2 sets worth, as he'd never worked with them and was afraid they'd break. ut right.

I see that USACG now carries them as an option. :)
Click to expand...

They are selling the leftovers that you sent them. :hiding:


:D

Seriously though, good on you to open their eyes up like that. In the end, we all win. I much prefer the look of clay in rosewood over anything else.
 
#15
billbass1 said:
Tell that to my Dad who died from exposure to it.
It takes about 30 to 50 years to catch up to you but
when it does, it is really frigging Nasty........
and you won't be wearing a grin then.
Click to expand...

Sorry to hear about your Dad. My Dad also died of lung cancer. Most likely from all the dust after being a shop teacher all his life.


Well then, I'm doomed. I used asbestos tiles for YEARS around my heat treat ovens and welding table. I was told that unless it's in the form of dust or fiberous insulation that turns to dust when handled, it's harmless. I work with Carbon Fiber, mother of pearl and toxic woods. That will probalby get me long before my asbestos tiles :hmm:

An experpt from the MSDS sheet:

>>>When is Asbestos Dangerous

When left intact and undisturbed, asbestos containing materials do not pose a health risk to people working or living in buildings. Asbestos containing material is not generally considered to be harmful unless it is releasing dust or fibers into the air where they can be inhaled or ingested. Many of the fibers will become trapped in the mucous membranes of the nose and throat where they can then be removed, but some may pass deep into the lungs, or, if swallowed, into the digestive tract.

Asbestos is hazardous when it is friable. The term "friable" means that the asbestos is easily crumbled by hand, releasing fibers into the air. Sprayed on asbestos insulation is highly friable. Asbestos floor tile is not. <<<


Like I said, unless you are playing fast enough to turn the asbestos tile dots into dust, you're safe :) TB'ers feel free to send me all your asbestos tile dot basses, I will dispose of them properly!!!
 
#17
FL Knifemaker said:
Sorry to hear about your Dad. My Dad also died of lung cancer. Most likely from all the dust after being a shop teacher all his life.

Sorry about your Dad also.
And, sorry if I sounded so harsh.
It is a touchy subject since I have had such as personal
close experience.
The manufactures knew for DECADES the dangers involved but did NOT inform the public.
That is the reason for all the huge law suits that have been going on now for years.
It is way to little compenstaion for victims family since nothing can bring them back again.
Click to expand...
 
#18
billbass1 said:
FL Knifemaker said:
Sorry to hear about your Dad. My Dad also died of lung cancer. Most likely from all the dust after being a shop teacher all his life.

Sorry about your Dad also.
And, sorry if I sounded so harsh.
It is a touchy subject since I have had such as personal
close experience.
The manufactures knew for DECADES the dangers involved but did NOT inform the public.
That is the reason for all the huge law suits that have been going on now for years.
It is way to little compenstaion for victims family since nothing can bring them back again.
Click to expand...

No problem man!! I hear what you're saying. At least now there are better laws for making people aware of hazardous materials. Years ago, I used trichloroethane for tapping and drilling tough metals. Man it worked great!! That probably took a few years off my life as well. It's now outlawed. :mad: I also worked for a company where I welded almost pure nickel, another carcenogen. :ninja: I guess I wasn't kidding when I said I was doomed :confused:
Click to expand...
 

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