Instrument details: Kate Bomphrey - Arch top guitar

Kate is using sash cramps to glue the front.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

A bow saw may be used as a traditional alternative to the bandsaw for cutting out the front shape if desired.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

The underside must be planed flat prior to carving.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

Kate is routing a shelf around the perimeter to give the edge thickness.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

The rest of the surface is planed and carved to prepared templates to give the basic shape.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

When the outside has been carved, the front and back are thicknessed from the inside using the same gouges, thumb planes and scrapers.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

A fret saw is used to cut out the f-holes in the front.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

Finally the braces are fitted - a complex procedure in which the spruce bars are shaped to exactly follow the contour of the inside of the front..

Photo added on 23/10/2014

Bending the sides.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

A shellac wash coat is applied to give warmth to the finish and to improve the adhesion of the lacquer.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

A close-up of the cutaway.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

Kate puts her finished guitar through its paces.

Photo added on 23/10/2014