It Worked for Me: Classical Guitar Peghead

by George A. Smith

Originally published in American Lutherie #86, 2006



To shape the end of a classical guitar peghead, a router can be used with a simple template which is screwed into the areas where the tuning-machine slots will be. But I prefer a system which gives better support so that there is less of a chance of the router wobbling and making errors. My peghead-shaping jig is made of 1/2˝ Baltic birch plywood, is larger than the guitar’s head, and uses interchangeable 1/4˝ thick templates.

Before routing, the peghead’s centerline, dimensions, and side taper are established, and the end shape is traced onto the head. The neck is left rough to facilitate clamping. The shape is then bandsawn about 1.5MM outside the traced line. The jig is centered on the head and secured with two screws where the slots will be. I use a 3/8˝×2 1/4˝ long pattern bit #102-0632B from Eagle America. The bit’s bearing should run low on the pattern. Lower bit into the open area of jig and hold the router fast while turning it on. Rout the design, return the bit to the open area, and turn off the router. Do not remove the router until the bit has stopped turning.