Fretboard Binding...

[glenklein]

These questions have probably been answered but when I do searches on almost anything I usually get this error:

The following words in your search query were ignored because they are too common words:

[1] What thickness of binding is typically used when binding the fretboard? 0.040"? 0.060"?

[2] How is the fretboard usually trimmed to width for the binding? Band saw? Router table? Does it matter with ebony?

[3] Best glue for plastic binding to wood?

Thanks!

Glen

[tippie53]

there are many ways to do this. I use my saw and granite surface plate. The key is to get the edge and taper true. The binding I use is 1/16 thick. If I use a wood binding I will use tite bond here. I may use Hot Hide glue. CA for repairs if needed.
To glue plastic on the wood I use duco or if I am on Ebony I may use CA. If I use CA I tape the binding on to the board and get the binding fit where I want it and wick thin CA.

[deadedith]

That's a good tip, Rick. Thanks.

[glenklein]

Yeah - this'll be my first time so thanks everyone for the help!

[Logan]

Related question I may as well tack on here; how much empty space relief should I allow for the nipped fretwire in the slot? I have over-radiused fretwire, and I know I want the tangs to fill as much of the fret slots as possible, but I worry that if I cut it too close that I will pop off or otherwise damage the binding when I press in the frets.

[glenklein]

darnit!

My bindings are glued on and look good, but...

I ended up getting glue in three of my fret slots.

Will acetone harm the plastic binding or the ebony fretboard? I want to clean those slots out and thought acetone would help break up the glue.

Thanks - Glen

[Logan]

I know StewMac makes a couple tools that are supposedly designed for just this thing, but I just use a little X-acto knife and it works well. I tend to avoid solvents on wood when I can, and acetone will soften / melt plastic binding.

[glenklein]

Thanks Logan... nice and easy with the exacto it is then.