Assembling Body
Assembling the body consists of removing the excess material above the kerfing, and attaching the sound board and back to the sides/kerfing assembly. It is important to attach the sound board before the back in order to provide added structure when attaching the curved back.
To prepare the sides for assembly:
1. Using coarse grit sandpaper, remove the extra side material that extends beyond the kerfing.
Note: To make sanding easier and more accurate, you may want to mark waste lines on the outside surface of the sides.
2. Once the sides are sanded flush with the ker- fing, mark and cut the braces to fit inside the kerfing but still touch it.
3. Trial fit the sound board and back, correct any fit issues by sanding as necessary.
To attach the sound board:
Note: Cutting the braces close allows them to be glued to the kerfing, increasing the strength of the ukulele. However, DO NOT force the braces inside the kerfing, as this will distort the shape of the ukulele.
2. Apply sufficient glue to the edges of the sound board and top of the kerfing.
Note: The sound board of the ukulele needs to be flat and the body symmetrical in order for the back to attach properly and provide the best sound quality.
Model T10458 (Mfg. Since 10/11)
3.Secure the sound board to the body with rub- ber bands. Use wedges to ensure a tight fit all around the instrument, as shown in Figure 19. Allow the glue to dry for the manu- facturer's recommended time.
Figure 19. Sound board glued to the body with
rubber bands and wedges.
To attach the back:
1.Mark and cut the braces to fit inside the kerfing but still touch it.
2.Secure the back to the body with rubber bands, ensuring a tight fit all around the instrument, as shown in Figure 20. Use wedges if necessary to ensure a tight fit. Allow the glue to dry for the manufacturer's recommended time.
Figure 20. Back glue to the ukulele body with
rubber bands.
