Kerfed Lining — Lutherie Encyclopedia

Kerfed LiningType: techniqueSlotted wooden strips glued inside the guitar body to increase the gluing surface between the sides and the top and back plates.## Overview Kerfed lining consists of strips of wood with closely spaced saw cuts (kerfs) that allow the strip to bend and conform to the curved interior of an instrument body. Glued along the top and bottom edges of the sides, kerfed lining provides a wider gluing surface for attaching the top and back plates. It is the most common lining method in steel-string and classical guitar construction. ## Process Kerfed lining is typically made from lightweight woods such as basswood, mahogany, or spruce. The strips are roughly 3/4 inch tall, 5/16 inch wide, and long enough to run the full length of each side. Kerfs are cut at regular intervals (approximately every 1/4 inch) to within 1-2mm of one edge, leaving a thin uncut spine. There are two primary styles: regular kerfed lining, where the kerfs face inward (toward the interior of the guitar), and reverse kerfed lining, where the uncut spine faces inward and the kerfs open toward the sides. Reverse kerfing provides a slightly stiffer connection and is preferred by many builders. Installation begins with applying glue to the uncut edge of the lining strip. The strip is pressed against the inside of the sides, flush with (or slightly proud of) the edge. Clothespins or spring clamps—often 30-50 per side—hold the lining in place while the glue dries. The lining must follow the side curvature without gaps. After the glue cures, the lining is trimmed and shaped. For the top, the lining is usually planed or sanded to match the curvatu…