How do I apply a top to a P or J ?

[pnut166]

How do I apply a top to a P or J ? Surprisingly, I can`t really find a good tutorial. I understand applying a top to something like a Tele, but specifically how do you accomidate the forearm contour ? Any help is appreciated !

 

[__HM__]

I'm no luthier, but I'd assume you put a top on all the flat top surface, than sand flush with any/all contours.

 

[Musiclogic]

3 ways....1)you figure the thickness of the top, remove this amount from the body, and apply the top. 2) Sand the top of the body and apply a veneer using heat to accomodate the arm contour. 3) You apply to the flat, sand the arm contour and top flush, then add matching piece over the arm contour.

 

[Aligator944]

This may be more than you are thinking, but I added a 3/8" thick wenge top (and back) to my Ibanez SR495. I took it to a local wood shop and he sanded the top and back of the mahogany body about 3/8" to accommodate the wenge caps. He only charged me $15. I also added a 1/16" maple veneer. I then used my bench top sander to shape the cap to the mahogany body. At the forearm cut-away you can see from the picture that I let the contrasting woods show.

If you are just planning to add a 1/42" wood veneer to the top you can probably just sand the top and slightly wet the top of the veneer to help it bend over the cut-away,just applying some titebond glue may add enough moisture to gently bend the veneer.

 

[HogieWan]

If you want to follow the contours, use a thin veneer. Wood conditioner helps soften the wood to bend without breaking