Doc_J
Well-known member
Just held a gorgeous, two year old uke made of Ziricote, that I was shocked to see several cracks along its back. There were at least 4 visible cracks that could be felt as well as seen. Crack lengths were 7",5",4",1" long, along the length, with the grain. I spy another 1 or 2 that are shorter or just starting. I've attached a pic.
I'm certain these were not there when it was built. The owner bought it new and has had the uke for two years in Florida. So it probably didn't Have a lack of humidity, actually it may have had too much. But, I don't know it's history. Maybe the wood wasn't completely dry when it was used. I don't know what the problem was and can only speculate. Interestingly, the spruce top on this uke shows no sign of any cracks. So, maybe the problem was Ziricote?
This is got me wondering if there are some woods such as Ziricote that may be more susceptible to cracking over time? I suppose it might have something to do with the figure in some woods, or their brittleness. Are there woods that luthiers do not prefer to use for this reason?
I'm certain these were not there when it was built. The owner bought it new and has had the uke for two years in Florida. So it probably didn't Have a lack of humidity, actually it may have had too much. But, I don't know it's history. Maybe the wood wasn't completely dry when it was used. I don't know what the problem was and can only speculate. Interestingly, the spruce top on this uke shows no sign of any cracks. So, maybe the problem was Ziricote?
This is got me wondering if there are some woods such as Ziricote that may be more susceptible to cracking over time? I suppose it might have something to do with the figure in some woods, or their brittleness. Are there woods that luthiers do not prefer to use for this reason?
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