How the Classical Guitar is Made
Craftsman skill where it counts
Harmonic bars shaped with a chisel and plane
The harmonic bars, which essentially determine the way the guitar reverberates, are attached to the top plate with a strong adhesive that adds to the sound. The adhesive has a high collagen content, and turns hard if it cools down or is exposed to air. To avoid this, the glue is kept in a bowl of hot water. The steel tray for storing the wood is also heated up before the guitar is assembled.
Harmonic bars being attached vertically
After a period of approximately two hours in which they are allowed to bond, each and every harmonic bar is shaved down with a chisel and plane.
Harmonic bars are shaped with a chisel. Horizontal bars are shaved with a plane.