Figured Maple Neck Blank | Master Grade

AT A GLANCE

Master grade figure. Quartersawn. Natural or roasted figured maple neck blank, planed and cut to multiple thickness, width, and length options.

Please note 1.5" roasted neck blanks are sold rough dimension.

STOCK ITEM

This is a stock item. You will not receive the one shown in the picture.

CONVERT TO TEST BLANK

We understand the uncertainty that comes with investing in a valuable piece of timber and not knowing exactly how it is going to turn out. To address this, we are now offering a "test blank" to alleviate some of the anxiety.

Q: What is a test blank?

Perhaps you are new to lutherie, figured and/or torrefied maple, or you are just looking to evaluate a new or experimental neck profile prior to carving into your production piece. These test blanks have a variety of aesthetic defects, but are suitable for practice and experimentation.

Q: What kinds of defects might be included in a test blank?

Defects include: Non-straight grain lines, flares, small knots (1/8" and under), worm, stains, "streaky" areas of weak or inconsistent figure. You will NOT receive a practice blank that includes large knots (1/8" and over) and/or cracks of any kind.

Q: How do I purchase a test blank in addition to my production neck blank?

Step One: After selecting your specifications, ensure that the "Convert To Test Blank" checkbox is unchecked and select "Add To Cart". This will add a production neck blank to your cart.

Step Two: With your specifications still selected, check the "Convert To Test Blank" checkbox to convert your neck blank to one that will be of lesser quality, but will have comparable master grade figure. Select "Add To Cart" to add your test blank as a separate item.

Q: What are some other uses for a test blank?

Although this is not an exhaustive list of all of the possible uses for a test blank, some uses may include:

1. Suitable for beginners and for other educational purposes.
2. New or experimental neck profile/design.
3. Evaluating the use of machine and hand tools with figured maple.
4. Unfamiliar with torrefied/roasted figured maple.
5. A reference article for a specific make/model.
6. A calibration piece for measuring tools and for work fixtures.

HIGH STIFFNESS TO WEIGHT RATIO

The use of maple provides a high stiffness to weight ratio, which makes an exceptional material for use in creating a neck that can withstand a considerable range of string tensions.

DIMENSIONALLY STABLE

Since most lumber has a natural tendency to undergo dimensional changes in different environments, the process of torrefaction (also known as thermal modification or roasting) significantly reduces its sensitivity to different temperatures and humidity levels. By roasting a neck blank, one can expect to have long-term dimensional stability when compared to other conventional methods.