I was able to get a little more work done between the parade this morning and fireworks this evening.
In a last minute decision I decided not to make the extra cat eyes the same size, but about 25% smaller. I think it gives a nicer looking effect. First step was to make an oak template of the size and shape I like.
Rough cut on the bandsaw.
Sanded on the disk sander, belt sander, and like little drum sander clone.
There, I think it will give the effect I'm after.
I never noticed it before but since I was working from the centerline of the neck I based my dimensions off of it. Surprising the two existing cat eyes were not exactly the same distance from the centerline. Perhaps it's because of the cutaway on the treble side and making things look balance. Whatever the reason I decided to follow suit.
My intention is to use the oak template for making the binding as well. I decided to try it out. Not bad but I used too much heat. I'll have to turn it down and be more careful.
Okay, we're ready to go!
The treble side had a hole in it already that I don't need so it was used for inserting the router. The bass side needed a hole drilled.
And here is the rough cut. I got close to my lines and then I'll file and sand from there. I only partially did the treble side because there is a metal hanger stuck on the inside of the guitar top. Now I'll be able to get it out and finish cutting the cat eye for that side.
Here is another view. Tomorrow night I'll finish cutting the cat eye for the treble side and start sanding, etc.
Okay, I am off to the fireworks! Happy 4th of July!