Beyond Partscaster. Building a Telecaster from parts. Avoid the pitfalls and mistakes. Part 7.

[@RedMercuryBluesBand]

Your editing, camera work, sound and radio worthy voice narration really have made this whole series superb!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

You are making me quite emotional. Thanks for those kind words. I have a West Country accent that I have always been a bit self conscious about. Doing these videos has cured that. Please recommend me wherever you can Steve. I’m chasing the magic 1000 subscriptions. Best regards Cx

[@RedMercuryBluesBand]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking LOL - I'm from Detroit MI - if your voice is West Country I wouldn't know it - in my neck of the woods a 'West Country' voice would be using terms like Howdy, Pardner, Giddy Up etc .....ha ha ha

[@Felipeozzy]

Totally agree! Keep it up!

[@lazvt8469]

Kudos from W. Virginia....on such a fantastic series...loved every minute of it! Let me check rest of channel... As you say....Cheers.

[@davidmoss7245]

Yeah totally professional in every way you should be on tv .A true natural behind the camera and excellent guitar building journey.Ive seen loads of guitar luthiers and all in all you’re the number 1,thanks for your valued work 👍👍👍🎸🎸🎸

[@KaseLewis-b1w]

I don't comment much on videos but your series really was brilliant to watch. The mix of humour with the steps kept me watching. I'll be watching other series now

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@KaseLewis-b1w thanks. I’m hoping to restart production soon. New house in France and endless restoration permitting.

[@venubhalla2825]

Once in a while KZbin pops up with such amazing content on my recommendations feed. Binge-watched the series through the week. You sir, have a voice that's perfectly suited for narration. Enjoyed every bit of the build. Cheers!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Why thank you. Over many years as an editor nobody stuck with my guide narration. Replacing it with some voice artist or know actor. Thanks for that lovely comment. I think the moment I ditched my attempts to hide my West Country burr it started to work for me. Never be ashamed of who you are. Said my old self to my young self.

[@dreamscuba]

I know this series is 2 years old, but I just came across it this week. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching the whole series. I think that you have really tastefully relic’d the guitar. I get the reluctance in relic’ing the neck. That neck does look nice. Well done.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

So glad you enjoyed it. More to come.

[@intimomusic4157]

Chris, I thoroughly enjoyed binge watching the complete series. Bravo! Very inspiring! You have a real knack in front of the camera. Please keep making videos--people are watching and your channel will grow... Encore!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks very much for your encouragement. I guess almost 40 years on the other side of the camera has given me some idea how it can be done. I still cringe when I hear my accent and can’t believe how much I’ve aged. But it’s fun and keeps me sane. C

[@conturf9973]

Just also wanted to add I did a strat project a while back and aged the vol and tone knobs using coffee ☕️ worked quite well. Left them in coffee grounds for a few days

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@conturf9973 very interesting. Being English I did consider using tea. Tea stains everything including out insides. I’m interested in what people want to see next. Not just guitar builds but maybe certain aspects that are not covered well by others perhaps?

[@conturf9973]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking maybe you could talk about truss rods, a lot of people are scared of them. I even know techs who won't go near them unless they have to.

[@robbyblack2699]

Intentionally damaging a guitar is the stupidest idea anyone EVER came up with. It’s idiotic and fake!

[@realpool]

Thank you very much for this series! You've created the ultimate template for what I want to achieve in my relicing journey. Your final result is amazing!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@realpool thanks so much. I’m glad you found it helpful and hopefully entertaining.

[@realpool]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking Very entertaining and informative!

[@tylerjarrett981]

So sad to see this build coming to an end because it was so awesome!! Would love to see more of the sound of that guitar!!!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

When it’s done it’s done Tyler. Stick with me. There’s more projects to come. I’m not a performer really and I was pretty tired when I got to the end. I will try and get my buddy Brian Powell to give it a going over next time he’s up. I hear what you are saying.

[@ronniejarvis2679]

Another great build! I really appreciate the way you’ve mimicked genuine wear from playing. Please keep them coming!!!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Ronnie. I think relicing sometimes runs away from the guitar maker. Thinking about how this stuff happens helps you make good choices about where the wear would be on the guitar. Not going over the top makes it believable. The scratch remover stain discolours the guitar too, making it look a tad jaded. Just like me! C

[@encrediblehughey6626]

Thank you so much for sharing this process and your knowledge! I'm beyond excited to put my first guitar together once my parts come in. You really helped me have a better understanding of how everything works together. Cheers!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Hi Hugh. It’s my pleasure to help. This process is not alchemy and it’s not that difficult. We should all seek to dispel this nonsense of complexity. Acoustic guitars are boxes and electric guitars are basically planks. All we need to do is to get them in the right shape at the right place at the right time and conform to the basic rules of physics that require that they are required to make them function, and that is it. The rest of it is just art and fun, and we should always have fun

[@retrochannel1763]

I want to re-finish an abused guitar, was looking for some advice and ended watching the whole series. And even more. Very informative, clear explaining and sympathic presentation. Thanks a lot for your work!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks for your comment. I’m glad you enjoyed my series.

[@karlnethercott9113]

Chris, just found your channel tonight and have watched this entire series. Love your style and your skills. Great work, looking forward to watching more!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Karine. I appreciate your kind words

[@sylvaind9086]

I watched the whole series. Superb job mate!!👍

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@sylvaind9086 thanks very much glad you enjoyed it C

[@ednaplate]

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this series of videos

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I’m very glad. I hope you subscribed. C

[@mtbsperry]

You sir, are brilliant. Beautiful work, and amazing series. Thank you for sharing your art with us the rest of us. Thanks to you my fear of building my own Tele has faded dramatically. 🙏🏻

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

No fear. It’s fun. Take your time accept that number one may fall short. Number 5 will delight. Progress is not instant. C

[@ronniboi312]

Masterclass Chris, Thank you for sharing your "Dark Arts" with us. I've enjoyed every moment of this Telecaster build series and I'm collecting the parts for my "shabby chic" build.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Good luck with your build Ronnie. As you know I don’t like the Dark arts builders that make it look hard. It simply isn’t and you just need a few pointers and some common sense. C

[@ifhpp]

Looking forward to follow these videos more closely when I eventually have time to build a tele for my daughters (and me!) - thank you :-)

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks very much. I’m glad you are finding them useful

[@juliomorel5516]

Nice job as always! Can't wait for the Les Paul Jr series!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Julio, always nice to hear from you. I am going to take a week or so before I start the Les Paul Jr. I might try live screening sometime if anyone fancies a chat.

[@waynekeenan6252]

Great series sad to see it come to an end but ended wurh a lovely end product cantwait for the next one

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Wayne. Parting is such sweet sorrow. My wife, of course, just sighed and said “what? Another one?”…

[@loopy7776]

This series was just swell. Thank you.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Doing a Strat series at the moment

[@the1khronohs40]

Fantastic! Looks excellent! 🙌🤩

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thank you! Cheers! More to come soon

[@jameshayward4619]

Absolutely loved watching these

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks James. It’s great when someone says that. Kinda makes it worthwhile

[@tombrackettjr.9308]

I have to tell you, I watched all 7 of your video's. So informative and you took a kit and really made it a custom guitar. Superb work!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks so much Tom. I’m so glad you felt inspired. I’m doing a Strat series right now do check it out. C

[@athanandronico4473]

Wounderful build. I have learned many things in watching these videos. Thank you

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I’m doing a new one right now. It’s a scratch build. Not parts just bits of wood. It’s a Les Paul Junior. Great fun.

[@melbrindle]

Along with enjoying the videos it was nice to see someone else with Daleks amongst their possessions like myself.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I’m of the Dalek obsessed generation. I always wanted to build a full sized one as a kid. I wrote to the bbc and got the plans. Unfortunately, I discovered guitars and girls then I was off to College etc. Maybe one day. C

[@melbrindle]

@Guitar Making with Chris Reynolds I have about 20 like the one on your shelf and a remote davros in the same scale, and about 50 of the very small talking ones. I also have a limited edition remote control chrome talking Dalek, one of only a thousand made . I'm 65, I may grow up one day, but probably not.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@melbrindle Oh dear. You are slightly deeper in than me. I just bought one for my grandson. A new style radio control one. He’s hooked at 4 years old.

[@snarfusmaximus]

I just watched this series and subscribed. Arrived here as I am also going to make a Tele-partscaster, although closer to an Esquire with a repro Bigsby pickup. Wasn't keen on modifying one of my guitars so I thought, sod it, I'll assemble my own. The best way to exploit a pickup is to make a single pickup guitar. Here's to twang!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Great attitude. It will be a triumph I am sure. I wish you good luck and keep me posted. C

[@KristofferGildenlow]

Great series! Thank you!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Kris. Hopefully there are more to come.

[@toenhev17]

Thanks Chris, I've watched these videos over 2 days & loved every minute of it! You tell it like it is, with handy tips for the guitar builder next stop for me is the Les Paul junior videos 👍

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

That reminds me I need to get in and keep building it! Life gets in the way sometimes

[@mototakahe836]

Loved your sanding comment!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I did this a while back but I have a thing about sanding. It’s something that needs to be done with care and intelligence. If you go at with the wrong grade and by hand you can turn a crisp creation with deft angles into an abraded piece of driftwood. Was it something like that?

[@jeffchambers4855]

I'm very busy right now and don't have any time - but still managed to follow all seven of these broadcasts from beginning to end in one sitting. Your experience and knowledge of tricks and pitfalls are invaluable. I also have a project to build a Tele (I had a 66 tele with the truss rod at the pickup end of the neck (grrr) and ruined it really), probably from scratch but will come back time and time again for the detail you provide. Thank you very much, entertaining and a service.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

So glad you enjoyed the series Jeff. I’m doing a Les Paul Junior build right now. It may not be your type of guitar, but the technique is universal. I was trained in acoustics really. The electric builds are easier but I’m not an acoustic player really so I dot around the genres. It’s all good practice and great fun. Good luck with your build. C

[@robinjones6692]

Hi, I've watched your video for the first time, and how impressed I am with your work. In such a short time, I've learnt so many different techniques from you, so, a big thank you.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

That’s Fantastic to hear. The methods are what I have learned and I enjoy pass them along. We pass this way but once, so let’s enjoy it. C

[@zmtblv]

Thank you so much for these videos, ill be making my light relic tele partscaster soon, these tips and tricks will be really helpful

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Really glad to hear this. Very good luck with your build.

[@richarddelatorre2977]

This was my first time watching you and enjoyed this whole series. I subscribed and look forward to more of your videos. I learned a lot. Awesome job!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

There are several series. Guitar building is a while subject and telecasters are just the opening chapter. Watch everything and you’ll get a broader knowledge of guitar making C

[@NorthShoreMike]

Greatly enjoyed the whole series, Chris. Learned a lot, too.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Mike. I’m no guru. I’m simply sharing what I know. Glad you enjoyed it. C.

[@phillippevence2056]

Awesome series. So satisfying to watch from start to finish. Great work.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks for that. I enjoyed the build too. C

[@ericwilliamson9869]

Absolutely loved this series. Thank you!!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I hoping to do many more Eric. Please spread the word and let’s move forward together en masse. Next up is a scratch build of a Les Paul Jr style guitar

[@ericwilliamson9869]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking I’m all in on this!

[@grahamaldridge]

Fantastic series Chris. The final package is a cracker as well. :-) I’m going to recommend your channel to a few mates, on a few forums. :-)

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks so much Gra. It’s been a great learning curve. I have invested so much time and effort into this venture. It would be nice to get enough subscriptions to qualify for a tiny return from the channel. It will only be a few bucks but a least I would get a small say in what can be advertised alongside my content. Anyhoo I’m still 100 plus off that target. I really appreciate your help mate. Cx

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Please, please, please subscribe to my channel. I'm getting so close to the magic 1000 subscribers when things will change for me. I'd like to do so much more and share my projects with you all. Work already started on my next KZbin guitar project. Big thanks to all of you Cx.

[@Doomlord777]

Great series. I learnt a lot. I stumbled upon this just in time as im gathering parts for a tele build. Easy to understand and nice to have the odd bit of humour thrown in! Thanks Chris! Subscribed! 👍

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

So glad you enjoyed the build. Good luck with your build. It’s addictive. C

[@johnianknox1629]

Chris, just found your channel, absolutely love your videos on the partscaster tele, especially as I've just completed my very first build using all parts from Amazon except the Obsidian solderless harness as I've no soldering or tools experience. My costliest bits were the Seymour Duncan pickups and the Fender locking tuners otherwise it's mostly Chinese parts except for the Wilkinson bridge. I have to say i was pretty pleased with the instrument except for the finish on the body, so I'm thinking of stripping it all off and starting again, as I'm retired now i have plenty of time to do just that. I was pretty pleased with the playability, but after watching your videos i think it really needs a professional luthier set up as i only have basic DIY tools. Keep up the good work buddy and cheerio from Glasgow.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

If you were closer to me I’d come over and do it for you mate. It’s not hard to do and I’ll be covering it in this series. The finishing is easier with a solid colour though. Seal it Sand it prime it sand it coat it sand it coat it sand it. Sand with 600 and then t cut it and polish it up. C

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Wilkinson bridges are made in China. They are fabulous. You’ve made good choices. C

[@johnianknox1629]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking Aw, that's nice of you to say that Chris, when I planned this before buying anything, I wanted the GEORGE HARRISON rosewood finish but because I didn't want to use aerosols I went for a rosewood stain and then a oil finish, unfortunately it turned out more like a mahogany colour, although it's not hideous I don't really like it, because it was my very first attempt I kind of hurried it at the sanding process because I was being impatient and wanted it finished so I could play it, but I suppose that's the learning process, I know better now, think I will take your advice and go for a gloss black look although I am a big fan of the tobacco sunburst look but I don't think I could make a decent job of a sunburst. Thanks for your kind comments Chris, and i'm now watching your LP JUNIOR videos, take care buddy.

[@duster413]

That is one fine Tele! To me they are the ultimate utilitarian electric guitar and so great to personalize as you have done such a fine job of. Keep at it with the channel, I anxiously await your next project!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Many thanks Bill. I’m so glad you enjoyed the series. I’m going to start the next build in a week or so. No parts this time though. I’m back to blocks of wood.

[@pickersgrip]

Fantastic job Chris!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks so much sir. C

[@davidsajben9778]

very enjoyable excellent work

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks very much C

[@ricardobelcredi2475]

Great work Chris I follow you from Chile

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@ricardobelcredi2475 and I thank you from France. Best wishes from Chris. C

[@davidriel7805]

Amazing thanks for doing this. Really enjoyed it very much. Looking forward to the next one. You have been very inspirational as I have really learned a lot watching this!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks so much David. I’m uploading a Top Ten Tools video tomorrow.

[@jasoncherriman7518]

Amazing series, thank you. Just sat here and watched the whole thing in one evening! I will definitely be coming back to watch your videos when I get going with a build!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Jason. I’m doing another build right now and we are three episodes in. It’s a scratch build of a Les Paul Junior. It’s looking good C

[@jasoncherriman7518]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking I will be sure to watch it!

[@conturf9973]

Really enjoyed this entire partscaster build, learned a lot and looking forward to more

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

What sort of more would you like to see?

[@conturf9973]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking well I'm dying to see how the les paul jr turns out, also noticed you'd a Jazzmaster on the wall so a JM build would be cool too

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@conturf9973 I’m a bit of an offset fan myself too.

[@neildourish9908]

Fantastic Chris. Enjoyed every episode. Thanks.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Neil. I’m building a Les Paul junior currently. We are up to episode 4. More episodes coming in a week or so.

[@garymitchell625]

That turned out Great. Ive been wanting to try building for a while. You have inspired me to do so. Really enjoyed your series. THX !!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Gary. Go for it. You will enjoy it. C

[@backbeat3254]

Really really excellent. I'm going to go for it!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Super. Good for you.

[@6xcchamber971]

Lots to learn at building guitars, Crack on Chris!!!! Love these things and your Les Paul Junior build as well. I am in the process of building 2 Flying V's. Bet the weather is getting good there as it is here in Canada. B

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Ha. Tried to get out today. Got the cameras all prepped and then there was a hurricane. High winds rain. Shouldn’t be a problem but it was hard to get the gear out to the workshop. I’ll try again tomorrow. C

[@6xcchamber971]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking My wife's Cousin lives near the coast and she said the same thing about the weather. Hope every one is OK!! My next and Last project is going to be a Les Paul Junior type guitar like you did. Excellent series! Thank you, All the Best

[@gm7836]

Nice build and entertaining, ta! I'm not really one for mad switching mods but, with a Tele, I do like a 4 position switch to give serial or parallel options.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Something I haven’t done but really should try. Out of phase is not always the best fit. So that’s one I shall look into thanks C

[@fantasticflyingfrogs]

I really enjoyed this series Chris. Watched the whole thing in one go! I've been working on guitars and building for years, and I still learned a couple new tricks. Well done!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks so much. Glad you enjoyed the series

[@matthewchambers910]

Thanks Chris, I thoroughly enjoyed this series and picked up some good tips along the way. Also had a few laughs. Great work mate. Can't wait for the LP Jr series.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks so much Mathew. I’m glad you found the series entertaining and helpful. I’m planning something new soon.

[@Lovetone1983]

watched the series really fun to follow. One thing I cant get over is the location of that string tree ... eek

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Yeah that was a true old world dyed in the wool cock up! Always use a reference and don’t try and work from memory. Not hard to spot but not easy to fix invisibly. Sorry it ruined your day. I was pretty hacked off about it at the time. We are all learning. C

[@Lovetone1983]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking its all good the series was excellent and I like your approach. super nerve racking drilling anything; ive done something similar during COVID as a project and centre marking the bridge alignment and bolting on the neck was measured...at least 10 times :P

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@Lovetone1983 it’s the old adage. Measure twice, cut once. But nobody is infallible. Best C

[@stevehurleydesign]

What a great series - really appreciate it. I've learned so much.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Steve that’s lovely of you to say so. It’s always a joy to hear that someone appreciated the product of many hours of guitar making, shooting and editing. All the best C

[@jah8859]

Most informative and entertaining. I have a dodgy Tele which I will now confidently set up (I've been hesitant at having a go at intonating),☮️❤️

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

It’s actually quite easy. A lot of east stuff is made to appear difficult by people trying to protect a meagre skill set. Intonation is merely the act of getting the string length correct so that the fretted note will be the same as the open or harmonic of the same note. If the fretted note is higher than the open string you need to make the string longer by moving the saddle backwards towards the tail strap button. It’s possible with any decent tuner. It’s a relative thing. Repeat for each string and the guitar should play in tune up and down the neck. A fast check is open E minor versus barred E minor. If they both sound sweet you are probably there.

[@stevedanby8042]

Nice job, I felt your pain on the relicing but it looks the part. Keep up the good work, this is great viewing

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

The process of slightly breaking something that you tried to get perfect is so counterintuitive. But getting it as good as you can first is a key step in making a good relic. I’m a firm believer that the best relic guitars are not the ones that look like Rory Gallagher threw his off a bus.

[@Zen_Not_Zen]

Fanbloomintastic series- Bravo !

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks very much. Strat series underway. C

[@Zen_Not_Zen]

Take your time, we can wait :) #goodthingscometothose...etc@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking

[@WS-bk7uu]

Thanks Chris, really enjoyed this series, can't wait for the Les Paul Junior!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Glad you enjoyed it WS. Gonna take a break before the next build. But I may do a one off about tools, what I have and why I got them. What do you think? I think I may put up a comment requesting input.

[@WS-bk7uu]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking I've thought about getting a Les Paul Jr as my next guitar so would be curious to see how easy it is to make one.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Me too. I have only so I’m aiming to make it better.

[@drfakoo]

The pleasure was mine... Thanks for sharing your art. 🙌

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks so much for your support Facundo. I'm going to start another project soon. C

[@cubfanmike]

a 'grit Bohemian' -- I did have my suspicions the guitar is looking very nice

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

That’s me. I think. I’m glad you enjoyed the build Mike.

[@lucmc123]

Chris I really enjoyed watching all 7 parts of your build I would love to see you building a strat

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Good news. I’m doing a strat build now. Two episodes are already up. C

[@lucmc123]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking I have been watching the first 2 episodes can't wait to see the 3rd one

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@lucmc123 I’m doing it now. I’m about 10 minutes in but we have been hit by a heatwave here. Also I’m suffering chronic backache that’s lasted over a week. There’s always something getting in the way. C

[@lucmc123]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking hope you get well soon love your builds it's making me think to want to build a guitar of my own

[@donateberli1871]

great videos fantastic relic work !

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks so much. I’m on an enforced break right now but a new build is underway and it will be completed before Christmas. C

[@RedRose4711]

Now that was absolutely brilliant. What a great build. I wonder how much this guitar would be?

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I’m considering selling all my guitars in the next year. Not something I have ever considered before… but I don’t see why I should keep all my builds. I don’t usually sell them because I value the chronology but I guess I should think about selling them. I have no idea what they are worth. The concept of value is alien to me. But I guess they are unique. I’m actually uncomfortable with the idea of selling my guitars. What could they be worth C

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks for the fabulous comment. I’m going k think about this question.

[@mariobernier4606]

Awesome build! We could see your being uncomfortable with aging the neck :) Sounds pretty good too!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Hi Mario. Thanks for your kind words. Deliberately breaking stuff you have spent hours making is weird. It try not to put a dent where I would encounter it whilst playing. I think that would drive me nuts.

[@ianchappell2907]

Good channel Chris, well presented too! Built my first tele over lockdown, funny enough a 60's style in daphne blue. Mind you I didn't build the body and neck from scratch. Interesting watching how you did it though.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Ian this wasn’t a scratch built either. I had the body from a previous project and the neck through a huge stock that I bought years ago. it’s always good to see them actually get made into a guitar at last

[@yerblues10]

Absolutely brilliant series! Some really great information . Can you put a link to the super vice in please.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks very much. The vice is known as a pattern makers vice. Google that or if you are in the USA you can get one from StewMac. But shop around for other suppliers

[@yerblues10]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking many thanks, I'm in the UK and bought one from Axminster.

[@timziegler3765]

Keep it up I’m going to start the finish on a thin line maple cap over Colombian Mahogany with posts cat royallac my first carve with my new pattern vise thanks TZ

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I really should get a cut from those vice makers!! I use it for everything as you can probably see in the vids. Look after the rubber pads in the jaws. They are really tough but any hard glue in them could mark your work. I also put a sponge cover over the metal between the jaws so that if I drop a piece on it it won’t get dented. C

[@Fireguy-]

Great series, thanks

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thank you for watching. Christmas break then back at it if it warms up. C

[@joekoons1937]

Hey Chris have ever thought of using a bit of trickery while aging. After you have aged all your bridge parts remove one if the saddle and screw and spring with a scuffed up slightly one so it looks like it failed and needed to be replaced? I think it looks good

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@joekoons1937 interstate idea. Not sure my OCD could handle it though!!! C

[@CMRWoodworks]

Just caught up with episodes 5, 6, and 7. Great series and awesome work on the guitar! It looks fantastic.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks very much. I don’t know your name…. I’m glad you enjoyed it. I’m doing another build from scratch right now. Still procrastinating over the neck joint to be honest

[@cryptokingz615]

brilliant mate!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks so much. C

[@ChrisHopkinsBass]

I believe that Leo sourced the original 3 way switch for the telecaster from military surplus. I think they were used on US bombers during WW2

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

That sounds very feasible. It must have been a part that was readily available. History is a wonderful thing. Thanks for your input. C

[@jerrystephenson1172]

I'm glad you addressed the issue w/sanding across the grain. As I watched you do so, I actually cringed somewhat, bc. It's taboo, according to most "experts." I accepted it because this is your creation & your vision is yours alone & also bc. this creation is yours to see through to the final product. Perfection is the place where original ideas go to die.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Ahh… The sanding issue. The idea that sanding across the grain is somehow deviant is absurd. I studied guitar making for several years at college full time. It was a privilege that age and a previous career in TV afforded me. At no time was anyone discouraged from sanding across the grain. Wood is made of long fibres and sanding across them does break them, but only at the surface. Sanding across some hard woods is sometimes the only way to make progress. But… you MUST finish by removing the broken fibres created, by sanding with the grain. Everything else is myth and bunkum. Thanks for your input and support Jerry.

[@strafto04]

Wow, what a fantastic job with not only the guitar but the production of your series as well. Thank you for all of the info. I had one question: after applying the aged pine stain on the neck, did you top coat it? Thanks again!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I applied a coat of water based stain first. A mix of antique pine a dash of yellow and a bit of mahogany. Basically chasing an amber. I sanded right back and then did a few passes of weak vintage amber nitrocellulose. Just a few thin coats. Then I let that set and finished it off with a few clear coats. Clear gloss. It worked well. C

[@robinlawson701]

I would never relic something that I had created ass a fine example. Frightening, but loved the series.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

It’s not for the faint hearted. Relicing is only appropriate when trying to emulate a vintage instrument. It’s not my particular preference but it’s something I do when requested. Have a great day.

[@markjamesgoddard2247]

Did I miss what Pickups you used for that lovely Tele?

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Huge amount of nonsense talked about pickups in my opinion. I buy good quality chinese pickups that look well made and I avoid anything with a great flat magnet glues across the underside of the string poles. Use a bit of common sense and avoid anything for a few bucks and you will get something functional. There’s always the opportunity to swap them out later for something extortionate if names and nonsense are your thing. C.

[@markjamesgoddard2247]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking I see.. thanks Chris I value your opinion much..I’ve been watching quite a lot of guitar stuff on here lately, most of it seems to be from the states.. so it’s fab that your a British chap.. your videos are a breath of fresh air… Ps. Thank you for your reply👍🎸

[@barrygoodson4952]

You are a great builder of guitars. It hurt me every time you sacked the headstock though. I do have a question. You tend to rub your hand over the unfinished body and neck before you paint or stain them. Since we all have oil in our hands and fingers doesn't this give you a chance to have some bad spots in your finish ? I believe I would wear latex gloves during that part of the build to safeguard not getting oil on the unfinished parts .

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

One of the few benefits of encroaching old age is bone dry skin. I grain fill, and sand seal before spraying primer. I then sand back the primer. I guess my dry (and splitting) hands don’t impart any significant oils. I see your point but I just haven’t encountered the issue. Thanks so much for watching Barry. I hated relicing the neck and the headstock. It goes against all my instincts too. But it would have looked wrong without at least a few dunks in the neck. Gives me the shivers to think about it too!

[@bman1000]

This is a fantastic series for a guitar enthusiast like myself. I definitely would like to do my own build someday. I’m curious what are the dimensions of your work shop and do you find it to be adequate or wish you had more space?

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

It’s about 3.5 x 2.5 metres. It’s enough. I’ve moved from the UK to France and my new workshop is huge. But I kinda miss my old wooden shed. But… it was too hot in summer and an icebox in winter. That I do not miss.

[@terrycohn9869]

The decal and string tree in my opinion should have been in a better position, I would have moved the decal a bit farther down the head stock, the string tree is way too close to the nut, I would have positioned the string tree farther down the head stock, closer to being under the A tuner alignment. But overall I am quite impressed with all that you did on the partscaster !

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Yup. I totally agree.

[@paulroberts5943]

Hi Chris, Stumbled across your channel, subscribed and just wanted to message you to thank you for some great content! I'm on the cusp of assembling my own partscaster tele. This one I'm going to go pristine and shiny with multiple clear coats and a decent amount of time on the top coat, but your videos have awakened a need for my next build to be a bit more "loved-up"! Nickel or chrome hardware though, which one relics up the best? Keep doing what you're doing - looking forward to future builds/ assembly.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Hi Paul, Thanks so much Flor your subscription. I hope you manage a great build and it meets your dreams. Nickel Hardware tarnishes the best but go easy with the Ferric Chloride. It’s fast with hardware I would start with a 10:1 solution and take it slow as it’s hard to undo. Best of luck C

[@themk7587]

Can you provide links to your background music? I love what I'm hearing.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

The music I use is from the KZbin creators library. It’s copyright free and I generally search for Dub Reggae. I’m a big fan of dub and messed around in this genre in the eighties. C

[@themk7587]

I was big into Reggae in the early’80s. I especially loved Dub. Hearing it again took me right back.

[@themk7587]

I was big into Reggae in the early’80s. I especially loved Dub. Hearing it again took me right back.

[@themk7587]

I was big into Reggae in the early’80s. I especially loved Dub. Hearing it again took me right back.

[@themk7587]

I was big into Reggae in the early’80s. I especially loved Dub. Hearing it again took me right back.

[@phish1]

Any chance you ever sell your builds? Or would do a custom partcaster build for a customer? I’d be interested!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

It’s something I am considering. I have amassed a fairly silly number of guitars. There is also the looming likelihood that I am going to leave the UK and move to France to live. This will probably mean I will have to confront the telecaster(s) in the room. I have been considering what I can part with. I may put some of my instruments up for sale. Probably on EBay. I haven’t got a timescale yet but it will likely be mid summer time.

[@Imw101]

Let us know when the Daff Bluey is listed !

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@Imw101 will do. It’s looking likelier than ever. C

[@Sjaak01]

Chris, nice video, i really enjoyed it! Is it possible for you to make a telecaster with a bridge like Rick Parfitt? (Les paul junior bridge) i think that it is hard to do but you as a guitar maker maybe have some ideas. Cheers from The Netherlands!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

The placement of the bridge is finite. It has to be 25.5 inches from the nut. Laterally it has to be positioned so that the strings are spread evenly and symmetrically across the neck. Not at all hard to do. The question is simply, why use such a bridge in deference to the innovative Fender Telecaster bridge? From pictures it doesn’t look that tricky to be honest. Finding the right hardware may be a little tricky though.

[@BinarySecond]

"Blood heat, no more" is the name of my debut black metal album

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

It’s a great title. I’d play on it if asked. C

[@dougckelly]

was squinting at the treble bleed to see the resistor value :D what's your goto combo for the bleed? (cap and resistor values)

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

You know I can’t remember. I’ll have to look that up. I bought about fifty of each several years ago and I’ve been using them ever since. I remember them being very low values indeed. C

[@robhobson3457]

Great videos thank you. What about neck angle relative to the body? How would you ensure that's centered and angled correctly please?

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Telecasters do not have a neck angle. The hardware design is such that the depth of the neck pocket obviates the need for one. The centring issue is covered in a previous episode and I use a laser to do the line up. Thanks for watching Rob. My next series is going to be a Les Paul junior and that will have a 2 degree neck angle.

[@arnebroxleirnes418]

"Across the Grain"... there's an album title in there somewhere...

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Hey Arne I think you’re right. Unfortunately, it would be jazz violin, beat box and bagpipe combo. Very niche. C. Thanks for watching episode 5 of the Les Paul jnr build coming in a few weeks

[@Z_Aye_P89]

I know this is an old video but Chris what’s your thoughts on intonation while holding it as if you were playing it I’ve always heard to set intonation as if you were actually playing the guitar and don’t lay it flat on its back do you think either way works ? Or do you think it don’t make much difference ?

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@Z_Aye_P89 I think I eluded to this issue in the episode. But maybe I didn’t include it in the final cut. Ideally you want to make sure that the guitar is in a playing position. We are dealing with very small forces here that have tiny but significant effects. I try and get the guitar in a playing orientation these days when I set the intonation. C

[@jonny3700]

She’s a beaut

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks. I really like it too.

[@jomielsoto8535]

Hi, what type of jack the guitar have?

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I don’t like the vintage bent metal sockets. They are flimsy and quite tricky to fit without the right tools. The ones use look similar fitted but are heavier and require just two screws. They are probably the must common ones available. Sometimes you can improve on a classic. C

[@bishlap]

generally I do not like "RELICS" however, you did a fine job, excellent in fact.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Yeah. I’m not actually a huge fan myself. I think it’s frequently over done and looks a bit silly. Done well it can make the guitar actually feel old and used which is kinda cool. I’m considering a mild relic job on my Les Paul Junior project. All he best. C

[@bishlap]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking Looking forward to your next project. Really enjoyed this last one a lot. THANKS, Chris.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@bishlap four parts already up and I’m working on part 5. Thanks for your support TJ.

[@bishlap]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking You sir are THE MAN!! thanks, Chris, looking forward to all your vids.

[@ewm335]

Nice relicing. Placement of that string tree looks very odd; for this type of Tele, generally it’d be closer to the A and D string posts. Probably should’ve placed the decal farther up, though if it functions OK nbd.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Yes. I agree. I have yet to achieve total perfection and Nirvana. I consider myself imperfect and a work in progress.

[@1978garfield]

I will have to see if Peterson makes that app for Android. I have a Pedal Steel and the Peterson tuners seem to be gold standard for steel players.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

A strobe tuner is great for intonation as you can almost ride it in. It’s detailed. I’m sure there will be something for android devices

[@petermichaelnielsen6337]

How did you make the decal?

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I have them printed by a company called Rothko and Frost. I designed it in Photoshop to the exact size on an A4 page and crammed as many as possible in. There is a specific colour that they tell you to use to indicate that you want that shade to be gold. It’s a great system. Not cheap, but they are the best decals I’ve ever used. www.rothkoandfrost.com/guitar-making-supplies-c83/headstock-decals-c1

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

If you are the USA there will be a choice of good suppliers I’m sure.

[@Aja-nt]

You can make your own. You'll need some A4 size decal paper for your printer. Then you can make up your own design using whichever program you like and print them off. The results will not be as good as professionally printed ones, but still pretty impressive and done in the spirit of self made.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@Aja-nt I have thought about trying this myself. Does it involve spraying clear laquer on the prints and reversing the image? Asking for a friend (me).

[@lesbutler5458]

Vastly superior (?) in every respect, to the machinations of the halfwit luthier found elsewhere on KZbin.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Ha ha. Oh Les but there are so many of them. Cx

[@terryjohinke8065]

Took a long time to get it right.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Hi Terry. What took a long time? The build or one aspect. Please expand your point. C

[@Mandobird1]

Relicing. Just say no. Seriously though, I really enjoyed this series, except for all the dinging! 😅

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I’m not devoted to it. But it’s relevant to vintage builds. There’s something soulless about a new build 52 tele. Glad you stuck with it. I treat it as a paint option. It’s not something I don on my own scratch builds. But there isn’t much interest in custom guitars so I don’t film them. C

[@jimoverly5386]

If your son is too busy, teaching his son, to walk, i can send you my mailing address, and, some adoption papers, dad!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I'm sure you would make a wonderful and dutiful son. Unfortunately, I already have two sons and I'm unable to take on another at this time. I will keep your application on file and will definitely consider you if such a post becomes available in the future. I wish you all the best in your search for a suitable Guitar Dad. C

[@unclebuck1735]

Do you buy a brand new car and scrape it around a bit to make it "yours". After all your careful sanding, contouring and finishing you bang it up?.....just let it get life's little bumps and bruises instead of vandalism..

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

You bore me, You bore me because your mind is closed. You bore me because what you said does not need to be said. You bore me because it is upsetting to be schooled by someone who patently doesn't get the process, the motivation or indeed the entire concept of what and why I'm doing it. Which is in fact deeper and more interesting than your simply not liking it. I would never post a negative comment like yours on anybody's channel mostly because it is simply opinion and doesn't contribute. But mostly because I do this for love and community and what you are doing is just hurtful. Walk on and hope for enlightenment. Yeah you just pissed me off