Instrument details: Phil Bates - Carved top electric guitar

Phil starts by joining the flamed maple facing and is here checking the flatness of one of the pieces.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

With the facing joined, the underside is planed flat ready for gluing onto the walnut body.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

The maple and walnut are glued together using many cramps to ensure even pressure.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

The abalone inlays are prepared and fitted into the headstock using a mini router, witch's tooth, knife and small chisels .

Photo added on 23/10/2014

The neck tenon is being fitted to the body, here using a shoulder plane.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

The fit is checked for correct alignment and tightness.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

Routing the channel for the corner binding. A specially made jig is attached to the base of the router to give the correct size of rebate.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

A light stain is being applied to the maple front to warm it up and to accentuate the figure.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

Twelve to fifteen coats of lacquer are then sprayed on, cut back and polished to a high gloss.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

A close-up of Phil's headstock with abalone inlays.

Photo added on 23/10/2014

The guitar is then reassembled and strung...

Photo added on 23/10/2014

...and it can then be played.

Photo added on 23/10/2014