Les Paul Junior Style Guitar Scratch build Part 1

Les Paul Junior Style Guitar Scratch build. Body construction, guitar routing, guitar design, guitar templates. Build at home and make your dream Les Paul Junior guitar, Subscribe to my channel to get updates and interact. Finally how to use and sharpen a cabinet scraper. All that and Philosopy corner.

[@jean-pierremarinalonzo3204]

That's why i love internet. People like you, take time to show how you do things, with cameras, build up all the séquences and comment your work. Thank you. I love your neighbor's laught !

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Jean-Piere. It’s quite a laugh isn’t it. She’s lovely. Thanks for your kind comments. Check out my Les Paul build. C.

[@rodneynolan]

Re: the Philosophy Corner segment... amen to that. I've been working on my first build since March and I'm taking my sweet time because this is a hobby and the only requirement is to enjoy the process. A big part of the hobby is watching builders on KZbin and I'm loving your channel.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Rodney. Yes indeed enjoy the process. There’s often more stress around than is required and a hobby should be a pleasure, that is why generally speaking I don’t build to order or indeed sell much of my work. My dad has acquired a sizeable library of golf books. I’m pretty sure that today he would be constantly on KZbin watching golf technique videos. KZbin is today’s skills library I guess. Have a great Christmas C

[@cdamiano100]

Very cool, loving this build already. I never heard of a cabinet scraper until I started watching your videos. Seems like it’s the magic tool to have.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I hated it for a few days. But then it just clicked. It’s a plane without body. It’ll save your lungs too.

[@dougckelly]

love the philosophy corner moment, sound advice that.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

It’s my fave part of the show. C. I’m no guru but I’ve done some stuff so if you can pass it on. Why not do that. C. Thanks for your feedback Doug

[@ronniejarvis2679]

Getting my popcorn ready for this build!!!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Ha ha. Butter or salt? Already loving it. I never know exactly how it’s going to come out but I have some ideas I’d like to try.

[@shanfaulkner5607]

I really appreciate alot what I have seen here....

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Shan. C

[@6xcchamber971]

When using the router Always go counter clockwise, going the opposite way can be disasterous the cutter can grab any excess wood, end grain and rip it out. It happened to me on my first build. Hope it did not happen to any of you. Good video! B

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

There’s a process called downhill routing and it’s the safest most effective way. It’s seems illogical at first. But once you get it it seems obvious. I’ll try and explain it next time. If there is a next time. C

[@islanderwinder]

It's refreshing so see a youtuber builder spreading wood glue with out those stupid black gloves on . 👍👍👍

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Health and safety is good sense but Titebond is safe enough. I’m a firm believer in being able to feel the wood. C

[@chrisr8618]

Can't wait to see the finished product and glad to have a new series on the go!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Chris R. All the best from Chris R

[@fernandodossantosmusica]

Lets Go ...good luck

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Fernando. Having my coffee then it’s out to the workshop to unclamp the neck and start some more alchemy.

[@MouldyGuitars]

If you are a beginner and dont have a burnishing tool, you can use the shaft of a big screwdriver. They tend to be hardened too.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I have no reason to believe that wouldn’t work. It really should. I’ll try that out. Great input.

[@mariobernier4606]

Have to agree with everyone - interesting content ! The "How to" use the different tools and all. Awesome video Chris !

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks Mario. Much more to come! I’m in the workshop right now working on the neck.

[@robinmarwick1982]

Excellent video...I really like the tip using the first router cut as a template for the second half. Very helpful...thanks..

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Routers are amazing but always scary. I hope one day that I get used to them but that’s still a way off! Can’t wait to get this plugged in. C

[@ryanbaptiste249]

11:49 - Coincidentally, the reason I'm watching this video now is precisely because it's been one of those days… sometimes, I just hate routers!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Oh. A bad router day is not fun. I know that feeling. C

[@sebvilleneuve]

Really well done!!! The video, the guitar! All the commentaries!!! One of the best videos on guitar making on youtube !!!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Wow Seb. That is massive praise. Thank you. I wish I could make more vids more quickly. There’s a lot going on right now. C

[@WS-bk7uu]

As a complete guitar making beginner, this has definitely got me inspired to do some builds!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

That’s brilliant to hear. Honestly that’s why I’m doing this. I’m not earning a cent from this and it can be a costly pursuit. But I love it and I want to share what I know. C

[@duster413]

Excellent as usual! The bits about the cabinet scrapers will come in quite handy. I've always struggled with clearing the side and end grain after routing, now I'm off to get a set of scrapers!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I hope they work for you. I struggled a bit at first but stick with it. Beware. They can get very hot. Trust me. C

[@VishalAgarwalMusic]

hahahahh I legit cracked up @ 7:44

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I’m glad the gag worked. I love Ben really. But he does overdo the ‘I’m a weirdo’ thing a bit.

[@CMRWoodworks]

Haha, the crimson guitars beard and head tattoo parts made me 😂

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I’m glad you found it funny. I feel a duty to entertain if possible. Guitar making clips can be a bit dry.

[@davidriel7805]

Amazing. Love your videos. Very inspirational!! This is totally want I want to make. Love this guitar. Thanks Chris

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

That’s lovely to hear. Thanks for your support. The next show will be along next week

[@BudgetPedalChap]

Fab stuff gent, can't wait to see the finished article

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

It’s going to be fun. Stick with me C

[@NonalignedVideos]

I look forward to the rest of this build.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Me too thanks for watching

[@HarpinJScott]

This is fantastic content, Chris! I really enjoy this kind of stuff and your commentary is wonderful. Now, if I can just get the guts to try something like this myself...especially the Junior! Besides the Tele, the Junior is my second fave...

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Thanks so much. I’m loving the build already. I’m doing more work in the neck tomorrow. You should try. It’s not that hard. C

[@chucklee347]

Not sure if there's much if any difference but Les pauls from the 50s were between 24 and a half and 3 fourths. Closer to 3 fourths but nevertheless shorter. That's been verified many times. 8 bomb guitar found this also when he was making. 59 replicas.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Interesting. Something was up with the scale that’s for sure. It’s not an issue as long as the frets are in the right place relative to the scale length. C

[@M5guitar1]

That scraper has a very satisfying sound. I'd like to build something soon. The finishing process is where I have the least confidence.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Scrapers rule. And yes the sound is very satisfying

[@mickcarr2744]

Looking forward to the build Chris, I do love the JR, although the double cut is my fave. Great mickey take on Mr Crowe too 😂

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Glad you enjoyed it. Not sure if I have a future in comedy though. He’s a very capable luthier but the tattoo stuff is baffling. The double cut has a a neck joint conundrum. That has to be accomplished in a very specific way. Maybe a project for another day.

[@dnate697]

Love the at 7:14 LMMFAO!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I try to get a gag in every episode. Very glad it gave you a laugh. All the best for 23. Cx

[@dnate697]

I like Crimson Guitars as well.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@dnate697 I like Crimson guitars too

[@mattjanes2992]

Subscribed!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Hah. Well done that man

[@pedromarquesmusic]

As always, really interesting episode. I clicked as soon as I saw it. By the way, what happens to your guitars once they're done? Do you sell, give, collect them? Cheers!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I’m a glutton. I should do a tour video and talk you through them. I sometimes sell.

[@randallsmith7885]

I am a woodworker who is interested in trying a guitar build. I have binge watched the Telecaster from parts series and loved it! Question on the template not matching your actual LP Jr guitar. You know your guitar's scale is good. Do you know that a template provides a good scale? I wonder if you can discuss what goes into that decision. And again, I am learning a lot watching your work and love every minute of it!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

The only number that matters in guitar making is the scale length. A Les Paul is 24.75 inches. The fret positions are locked to that number. If there is a deviation from those positions the guitar won’t play in tune. I checked the guitar template against my fretting template and it was basically perfect. The actual Les Paul was slightly out. But… the wrap around bridge on the Gibson is angled and so the scale length probably isn’t truly 24.75 inches. It’s a weird one but that’s what seems to be going on. C

[@robinmarwick1982]

I'm very impressed with your planing skills. I've turned roof timbers into matchsticks before getting even close to square. Any tips on how to improve or should I just buy a LPJ instead?

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

A sharp blade honed to the right angle is the key. Setting up a plane and getting used to handling it correctly is a worthwhile skill. It’s so important to get good tools and set them up correctly.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Maybe I should do a short on planing. I think there are a few out there already but I bet they are a bit dry.

[@Kevin-the-Just]

I've just seen the thumbnail. SPOILER ALERT! I was looking forward to watching the process and there it is - finished. Nevermind, I'll watch along anyway. 😁

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

That’s my TV yellow custom shop 57 not the build. Mine is going to be somewhat different. I have a few ideas and a crazy pickup choice. You haven’t seen the final guitar. It ain’t built yet. C

[@TexanUSMC8089]

I would think that your template is slightly different than a Gibson because the people making the template doesn't want to get sued by GIbson.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Possibly. It’s a hybrid template. The profile was very skinny which was fine with me. I tend to do my own thing and use them for guidance rather than stick rigidly to them. It’s a personal thing. I know where I’m headed and sometimes I go off piste. C

[@lwinch6468]

Hi Chris, Great video! Quick question: I have a piece of hardwood big enough for the body of the guitar, can you use this as one piece of wood or do you recommend to cut that piece into two, change grain direction and glue them together?

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I would go with the beauty of the one piece. It’s rare to get access to a piece of wood big enough to make a body from. I’m envious. C

[@jeremygardner3193]

Hey, Chris! I enjoy your channel! Where can I find the template you use for the single cut junior?

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

It’s from Crimson Guitars!! In the UK. You can download plans from some places and get them printed 1:1. I’ve done that with acoustic plans. Good luck C

[@happydommo]

You get a like and subscribe just for Crimson Guitars….

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Ha haaaa. I’m sooo bad.

[@happydommo]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking Great channel by the way - just came across it and watched the tele series back to back… Perfect content mix of clear technique instruction with great presentation style…

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@happydommo thanks for your kind words. I’m building a Les Paul junior right now. A perfect first scratch build project

[@scottwilliams1902]

Great video as usual though the first half of the video is the last video you uploaded.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Hi Scott. Yes, the first six minutes are the teaser (just under a third of the run time). It has to be done I am afraid, as I want the parts to show the whole story from the beginning, without the teaser which will probably dissapear in time. The rest of it is all new and there is much, more to come. I had to do it with an eye on the future. I am goig to be targeting around 20 mins per episode this time around. Please don't be dissapointed I hope to get the next ep out by next Friday. C

[@scottwilliams1902]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking I see. My mistake. I'm not disappointed at all. You have a great channel. I'm looking forward to the next part. Though I will probably never build my own guitar, it is really interesting to watch. Way better than the rubbish I used to buy a TV license for.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

@@scottwilliams1902 I used to edit quite a lot of that stuff you used to watch. C

[@timziegler3765]

I’m off to buy what you would call timber I’m buy hole logs hope to get Rosewood and mahogany

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Amazing. Have fun. I envy you a good source.

[@timziegler3765]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking Chirs if you ever want to make a trip to Colombia you can pay for the trip with 1 suit case of wood and I’m a good host for 2-3 days

[@Kyush4]

do you plan on keeping the neck slope? always thought that was stupid

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

I think you are referring to the beak break angle. Due to the design of the Les Paul, the way the neck is quite deep in the neck pocket and the relatively tall bridge, the neck must be angled back so the strings are not way high over the fretboard. We will be covering that later on.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

You could fit a low profile bridge like a strat hardtail or a hip shot if you really hate the break angle approach. It’s a challenge and interesting so I’m planning to keep the angle.

[@Kyush4]

@@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking the Les Paul singlecut junior has a slope between the neck and the cutaway, like the neck got moved to the left or something

[@akaski777]

Nobody seems to use evo stick white wood glue anymore

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Evo stik resin w. It came in a green squeeze bottle. Nope. We use Titebond now. So much better. We move with the times. C

[@allang9912]

You never trace your guitar before gluing your body pieces it will change your dimensions if you do any planing!!!!

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Sorry Allan could you expand on that statement, I’m struggling to understand what you are telling me.

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Oh hang on. I get what you are saying. Ok firstly the amount i removed from each piece was about as much as a pencil line. Secondly I drew the shape on the pieces in order to decide which side of the blank to use and which direction I wanted. Converging grain looks better pointing to the neck in my view. Thirdly after glueing and before sawing I flipped the blank. Changed the direct and redrew the shape from the template prior to bandsawing the shape loosely. Fourthly, the final shaping was done using the template to guide the router. This means that the lines I drew were little more than a reminder of my grain and topside decisions. C

[@thegreatwragginski3093]

Just got told off by the wife for laughing too hard at the Crimson Guitars mention! 😂😂

[@chrisreynoldsguitarmaking]

Good to know it made someone giggle. C

[@andrewmundenandcadfellmast4624]

I gave the dogs a fright doing the same thing 🤣🤣