Gouge Set — Lutherie Encyclopedia

Gouge SetType: toolCurved-blade carving tools used for shaping neck heels, volutes, and interior bracing contours.## Description Gouges are chisels with curved cutting edges, classified by their sweep (curvature) and width. A lutherie gouge set typically includes sweeps from shallow (#3) to deep (#9) in widths from 6mm to 20mm. The blade cross-section may be in-cannel (bevel on the inside) or out-cannel (bevel on the outside), with out-cannel being the most common for lutherie. Quality gouges are forged from high-carbon steel and fitted with round or octagonal hardwood handles. ## Use in Lutherie Gouges are essential for carving the neck heel, which transitions from the flat neck shaft to the curved body joint. They are also used for shaping headstock volutes on classical guitars, hollowing the interior of carved-top instruments (archtop guitars, mandolins), and sculpting decorative elements. Shallow sweeps work well for gentle curves and broad surfaces, while deep sweeps excel at removing material from concavities. In archtop building, gouges are the primary tools for carving the top and back plates. ## Selection Guide For flat-top acoustic guitar building, a small set of three to five gouges covers most needs: a #3 sweep at 15mm, a #5 sweep at 10mm, and a #7 sweep at 8mm make a good starting set. Archtop builders need a larger collection spanning more sweeps and widths. Pfeil (Swiss Made), Hirsch, and Two Cherries are reputable brands. Budget 60 to 300 dollars for a starter set. Japanese gouges from Fujitool are also excellent. ## Tips - Sharpen gouges using a slip stone that matches…