Making back braces

I’m sure there are many ways to make back braces but I have to go with what I know. I have now acquired some different soft woods , Sitka spruce , European spruce and some cedar.First ripping a few pieces at 3/4 and at 5/16ths, lay out patterns described in an earlier blog.

After marking the layout I will go to the larger band saw and rough cut.

Now on a 25 foot radius block with 80 grit sand paper block down until all the mill marks are gone.

Now remark the top of the brace and sand close to the mark on the spinal sander.

Now fair in a straight line with a block plane.

Next bevel and round over the sides using the block plane.

I will make two like this, one longer than the other according to the templates.These two will be for the lower bout. Next the one for the waist and upper bout.

This is the 5/16ths piece showing grain direction.

Lay out pattern and because it’s thin I’ll knock down the ends with a block plane.

Then go to the band saw to trim the shoulder.

Finish on the spinal sander.

Then bevel with block plane.

Back to the radius block and sand in the arch.

Shown here with the template next to it.

A bit of sanding and I can make all four in about 40 minuets.