New Octave Mandolin Nears Completion

Some of you know that I recently ordered a new octave mandolin from Austin Clark - an amazingly great guy to work with and the guy to go to if you're in the market for a once-in-a-lifetime instrument of this type. Austin has been kind enough to send me pictures of my dream instrument along the way and now, as it nears completion, I thought I'd share a few of them with you. I'll post some of my own photos when the instrument arrives but for now take a look. I think you'll be fascinated by the process through which a stack of wood becomes a true work of art. If these pictures leave you wanting to learn more about Austin you can find him here ... Clark Mandolins

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  1. Completed Top

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  2. Back

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  3. Gluing the Braces

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  4. Sides

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  5. Neck Meets Body

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  6. Getting Frets

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  7. Inlay

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  8. Ready for finishing

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  9. The color is on

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  10. Getting near the finish line

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  11. Wet Sanding

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  12. First Coat French Polish