LAPINEL ARTS
LAPINEL VIOLINS
In this section I will discuss the basic approach to cutting the soundpost to size. In section 2, I will discuss selection, size and the approach to placement.
Placing a slightly long and squared soundpost on top of the belly and back allows you to visualize the necessary angle that will be required when the soundpost is placed in your region of choice. Typically this is south of the treble foot of the bridge by 1.5 - 2 mm.
I cut the belly angle first by placing the post upright in the proper location, marking the line (with a pencil) that I think is parallel to the belly when the post is properly vertical. The ability to visually ascertain the "vertical" is a skill that is easily achieved with practice. As an aid, the violin can be placed in a cradle so that it is in a proper horizontal plane and the reflection of the post or parallel lines such as doorway frames can be used.
Here is a post with an incorrect angle (note the reflection).
...and one with the correct angle.
This angle is correct but in reverse. When cutting the back angle remember that the post will have two long sides and two short sides with the grain running from the long side to the short side. As a reminder, the post should be fit with the grain perpendicular to the belly grain.
Once this angle is achieved then, while keeping the post a bit long (to get the correct angle) get this angle on the back.
I use my index fingers and my thumb to find the correct location on the back. I used to use a wood fabricated compass that had one side rest on the ribs, exactly perpendicular to the edges and the remaining arm fixed as on the belly.
If these approaches are intimidating one can go through the process of using a rubber band and taking measurements off the center as in the photos following.
Now take your measurement tool. I'll use a standard inexpensive jig. Once again you will have to develop the ability to "see" the vertical and have a sense of where the measurement is being taken. This is easily done with practice. To start with you can use painters tape, chalk or any reversible non damaging substance to aid in gaining this skill.
See below:
Visual placement...
The use of an aid as a marker.
Insert this tool in the proper location and fix the measurement with the locking screw.
Transfer this distance to a sharp (typical) caliper and lock the caliper.
Now- Being keenly aware that you are marking the midsection of the sloping post, press in the caliper at the top to indent the exact mark. In the second photo note the alignment of the drawn in grain.
The mark that you will cut to with a knife, fine saw or chisel-
Now I realize I should have taken a photo of the already cut back angle ...a little long but I'm sure you get the point.
I'll try to get part two up as soon as possible.