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I've noticed some places sell the no stick filler strips for installing abalone slighlty oversized and some sell it the exact same size. I assume the oversize, .066" for .063" purfling, is to allow for glue. what is the way to go here? Never did abalone purfling and thought it might be fun to try.

Rick do you use a CA method for purfs and bindings?

The stated size of the filler strip I used and the abalone that went in once the strip was removed were the same size. Allegedly. I had no problem fitting the abalone in the gap except in the waist curve. I might go for the oversized strip if I bought a new one, but as it was, I really had little problem getting the abalone in. I used Titebond for the purfling and then CA for the abalone.

I get mine from Martin and it is on size. I use white glue or tite bond for the initial glue in. CA to fill voids and sealing . I don't use CA per se as that can cause spruce discoloration. This is a case that you must find the technique that works for you.
I use snap and break installation . Working pearl is a process and you have to find what works for you for the results you are looking for.

I've used the .063 teflon strips which matched the abalam perfectly. Like John, I use the snap and break method (abalam is great for this!) and have had excellent results. I set it in with white glue and finish over it, but John has it right... find what works for you and you'll be happy in the long run.

thanks for the input. not quite sure which one I'll go with yet but I will definately buy extra to practice with. Leaning a bit more to the .063 at the moment.

Just as an aside, after using the CA method for binding/purfling on a couple of instruments, I'm going back to titebond. It takes a little longer, but I like the way it works for me.

Kyle,

On my current guitar, I bought real shell from Andy DePaule. I ordered 80 or 90 inches, but I got much more. he has different size strips on his site and his price was much cheaper than getting it from LMI or Stew Mac. Just a heads up in acse you did not yet order. On the guitar prior to this one, I got my shell from Stew Mac and it was about twice the price.

Tony

An alternative to CA for shell would be duco...if it is put in thin enough, it will dry fairly quickly, though not in a couple minutes or less like CA. It won't stain sitka or koa either.

tony,
thanks for the heads up on the prices. i have not ordered it yet so i will check them out.