Cutting a Scratchplate

[grumpyguts]

I want to add another MM pickup to my OLP.

I am happy to cut the hole in the body - I have a router and know how to use it..

But I am not sure the best way to cut the scratchplate - it's a rather lovely mirror finish job that I would rather not cock up.

Any suggestions would be very welcome.

[Twigman]

drill a hole and then use a jeweller's fretsaw?

[Jabba_the_gut]

I'd make a template from mdf or similar then use a template cutter router bit. This will make a really neat job and could be used for the body too. I've done this for a scratchplate for a 5 string USA SUB stingray and it looked cracking.

Here's a photo of one I made for a bass in the build diaries section.

Cheers

Jez

Edited October 21, 2015 by Jabba_the_gut

[grumpyguts]

Thanks for all the advice, I think the template is the way to go.

I have the original (rather nasty) scratchplate to practice on.

The bass was only £80 so it's a good basis for a bit of farting around.

[Norris]

You could always practice routing with your template on a scrap piece of 6mm MDF first and then see how the pickup fits. Then you won't wreck your scratchplate if it's not quite right.