Everything But The Bridge

Today I got to see what my guitar is going to look like for the first time. The bridge and the tuners are still missing, a few minor repairs are needed, and hours of sanding and detail work remain to be done, but this is very close to what it will look like when it's finished.

I also finished shaping the neck today, and I love the feel of it. It's an amazing experience to shave away wood with a rasp, knowing that each stroke brings it just a little bit closer to its final contour. There is a point at which no measurements are taken and progress is gauged only by the the way it feels in your palm, its heft, and its shadow as you hold it up to the light.

And the amazing part is that, as you progress, your goal becomes obvious. Its shape becomes clearer and clearer, and it reveals itself.