Separating Glued Joints

by Nick Hayden

Originally published as Guild of American Luthiers Data Sheet #7, 1975

Here’s a good method for separating glue. I’ve taken so many tops off without breaking, it isn’t even funny.

First of all, you have to get white vinegar, then heat it up. It has to be hot.

Work it into the glue joint. Use a razor knife and a small brush. The glue will turn white and you can work it loose.

I told this to Bill Spigelsky, and he couldn’t get over it, when he tried it. ◆