Christian Pedersen

When we see photos of the Kochanski del Gesu the varnish appears red or even something darker. The varnish viewed in person is quite orange. The fine crackle on a lightly polished surface from long ago collects environmental dirt in a most delightful way. This is one of the more difficult aspects to replicate when antiquing. --Chris Pedersen

The more string players there are the better for the industry.

This Strad article should answer your questions. http://www.platetuning.org/Cremonesesarching_Part_1.pdf

Interesting arching concepts. I would be interested in seeing a completed instrument or or least an example of an arched top or back. --Chris

This has worked for me for close to 30 years. It's a prototype that worked so well I haven't needed to make a new one.

Ebay, but they are easy to find.

Made these in an afternoon.

https://olfa.com/craft/product/cushion-grip-knife-ak-4/ This one securely holds the blade!

I'm surprised they didn't use a French instrument in the advertisement!

Darkened pegboxes (black or what ever color) in older instruments is a typical step after a scroll graft and bushings. Most of the expensive instruments where I work have darkened pegboxes. If you like it, do it. If you don't, don't. It's not a big deal!

Who are the new members?

Bump!

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Matt, Those strings are the Chinese ones that come on the bass originally. I believe most folks toss them. I would replace them with D'Addario Helicore strings. --Chris