First build - need a mold

[musicman2000]

Before I order my kit from Martin (I am going to try an OM-OOO laminate) I read that I should get the sides into a mold ASAP when I receive the kit. I know I can make my own, but for my first time out, I don't know if I trust myself to get the measurements exact. I would like to buy a mold. I saw that Martin has an external mold for $103. Is this a good deal? What do think is the best type of mold for a beginner, keeping in mind I have a small 8 X 6 work area? Thanks.

Tom

Look to the left part of this page. Ad boxes for supporters of the Forum. My first go to would be John Hall/Blues Creek Guitar.
John is the proprietor of the Forum, sells top notch quality lutherie stuff and is a fountain of information.

-tommy

[johnnparchem]

I agree, Blue Creek Guitar molds are really nice. They are deep, made out of plywood instead of MDF with good hardware. His price with shipping is probably close to what you listed. The size of the mold is relative to the guitar so space and experience really are not factors in the buying decision.

[tippie53]

I actually make the molds for Martin.

[musicman2000]

Thank you John. Your mold prices seem a little more reasonable. I might even grab a mold spreader while I am at it.

I am confused about which one I need though. This is the kit I am purchasing from the Martin web site:

http://www.martinguitar.com/guitar-make ... etail.html

Forgive me, but I am a little bit uneducated when it comes to acoustic body style designations. From what I can figure, an "OM" designation is identical to "OOO- 14 fret." Is there a difference? I assume for the kit I indicated, I would need the OM - 14 fret mold. Do all kits/guitars with OM have 14 frets? There is another kit on the Martin web site that is listed as an OM, but also has OOO in the description.

Confused.

Tom

[tippie53]

yes the 000/OM mold is what you need. That will do the trick.

[Kevin Sjostrand]

and you want the spreaders also Tom. Spend the cash and get what you need from John.

Kevin

[justrfb]

Hello Tom.
I was right where you are only I was "stuck" on making my own mold. The good people here on this list, basically and gently told me I am much better off buying the mold. As stated here, John Hall makes the molds for Martin. I have one and in my opinion, it is critical to the end result of a nicely built instrument. Good luck.

Sincerely,
Rich

[musicman2000]

This helps. Thank you all for the input.

[musicman2000]

Ordered my mold and supplies from Blues Creek today. Guitar kit by next week. Can't wait to get started!

Tom