Some of the more exotic tonewoods require a little bit of prep work before they’re fit to build an instrument out of, like this african blackwood that came complete with wormholes and sap pockets.

Home » By Alastair Miller » Lesson » Fill Worm Holes

©2009 - Mark Kett

The first thing to do, is pick out any old dried up sap and mineral deposits with a small chisel and or pin.

Once I had the shape shape cut out, I drilled a hole at the top just big enough for the dial caliper to slip into, and another hole in the bottom to be threaded for a 1/4″/20 bolt. Be sure to line these holes up the best you can.

Next is to fill the voids with wood dust. On this blackwood, I used some ebony dust that I had handy. Use my small chisel to scoop up the dust, and fill any spots that need it. Don’t pack it too tight or the cyanoacrylate glue (super glue) won’t be able to penetrate all the way through.

Next is to fill the voids with wood dust. On this blackwood, I used some ebony dust that I had handy. Use my small chisel to scoop up the dust, and fill any spots that need it. Don’t pack it too tight or the cyanoacrylate glue (super glue) won’t be able to penetrate all the way through.

…Then sit back and wait for the glue to dry. Using an accelerator to speed the drying time may cause the glue to bubble and leave voids, so use with caution or not at all.

Once the glue has dried, you can remove any excess from the piece with a scraper. If there are any voids remaining, repeat the same steps. §