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I usually don't cut out the soundhole until after the rosette is set and sanded. That way the hole for the router pin is still there for possible fixes.

Yeah -- replacing the center point can be difficult. I've never had to do it, of course....

Yes, I regret routing the sound hole but as you can see in the picture the top is still aligned with the mounting hole for the circle cutter.

It's possible to use your circle cutter to cut a plug just the right size to sit in the soundhole, so you have a better base for recutting your rings. I know this because I too have had to redo rosette rings, and as Carl says, I've learned to cut the soundhole when I was sure I was happy with the rosette. The smallest cracks can look like the Grand Canyon down the road. It's a challenge to realign the circle cutter perfectly and you may have to rout your ring a touch oversize and add a strip or two of purfling, maybe a single black strip to the inside and/or outside edges. Bruce W.

Is it really necessary to cut out a plug if I use the work board's pilot hole and can align the top using the jig at the same circumference as the sound hole?

It doesn't take long to make a plug and proceed. It does take a long time to right a problem that using the plug avoids. Best way to get something done? Do it right.

I'd recommend it. I'd think even a couple of thousandths off center might visually be discernible .... or not. :,)
Edit: Had another thought. Cut the plug from matching hardwood, fit tight, glue it in, then cut your soundhole slightly smaller the second time for a bound soundhole. I try to make a feature out of my many mistakes.

Here's how the second attempt turned out. I am okay with it. This is not for sale after all.



BTW, my local shop has some Martin 000s in stock, including a 000-18 Modern Deluxe and several 000-28 1937 spec custom shop in both natural and Stage 1 Ambertone finish - which inexplicably includes finish checking. I went in basically to see how the 24.9" scale felt and since this one will also have the same neck and scale length I have to say I am more excited than ever to see how this one turns out.

I glued the X brace in the other day.

Neil
I'd say that looks just great. You did a good job