Dots; Micarta; Trigger Cloth

by Michael Breid

Originally published as Guild of American Luthiers Data Sheet #177, 1981

Having trouble getting white side position dots for dark fingerboards, and vise-versa? Using white or dark celluloid pieces, press out or punch out as many as you need, with a rotating leather punch. They cost about seven bucks, but they will pay for themselves in no time.

If you are looking for ivory micarta for nuts and saddles etc. check the local knife makers shop. They usually carry it in big chunks, or smaller slabs, and it is not all that expensive. Besides you many have saved an elephant!

In looking for a suitable material for reinforcing inside cracks, I found a product called “trigger” in a cloth store. It is a fabric closely woven, takes glue easily, and shrinks a little when dry, so as to really provide a tight repair. ◆