JEM/RG copy parts DIY build x2

[MAJ Meadows SF]

So with a few months left in this deployment I've gotten anxious without having anything more than a Shredneck and metronome in my hands! Hopefully when I return I'll have a BRJ Slant Top 7 waiting for me and work on my Daemoness build details. Regardless I have two project bodies to work on. I have had an obsession with JEMs and JEM copies, and I always wanted to build my own to my specs and not blow a hole through my wallet. By build I mean slap parts together, as I am no luthier by any means.

I acquired a couple nicely CNC'd bodies off ebay over a year ago. One is slightly carved, the other a JEM copy. Both flamed maple caps (1/4") and mahogany backs, AANJ. I plan on staining both bodies: the RG copy (H-H) will be faded-denim-blue; the JEM copy (H-S-H) I haven't decided. I have a couple book matched flamed maple blanks to practice techniques on for staining, sanding, and finishing. Once I get that down I'm giving these a go!

First up is the H-H body, which will have the f-d-b stain, natural oiled back. The neck is 3 piece maple and purple heart, ebony fretboard, green vine with blue leaf inlay with a yellow rose from the 11-13 frets. I wanted a reversed Parker/Blackmachine/Invictus style headstock and not the traditional Ibanez look. I have yet to see the finished product so I hope it comes out good. Chrome hardware, burnt chrome BKP Miracle Man set. When I get back I'll have to finish the body, install the hardware, and do a setup and hopefully it won't explode on me!

Here's a few older pics I found of what I'm working with. I am sorry for the horrible phone quality; I do have a good camera now and will take better photos when I get back to work on these.

 

[MAJ Meadows SF]

Here's an idea of the neck, at least fret board and inlays.

 

[Lost of All Reason]

MAJ, can't wait to see more on this project. Considering some custom RG work myself and have/would really enjoy reading about yours!

 

[MAJ Meadows SF]

Thanks! It's not going to be quick but I'm going to give it the time it needs so it's done right. I'm looking forward to seeing what the RG's neck looks like! I gave ideas to the luthier, and it's Blackmachine'ish, but said put his own twist on it. Not trying to make a shameless copy, but the overall design is too cool to me, and I'm probably not getting my hands on a BM anytime soon. The JEM copy is going to get a more traditional neck, but probably with some more exotic woods, possibly no inlays. Still have to come up with a color for the body.

More to come!

 

[Lost of All Reason]

Have you considered doing your headstock non-reversed? It's something I haven't seen too much (if any) of with that style, and imo at least I think would look a lot better.

 

[MAJ Meadows SF]

Yeah I think the JEM headstock will be standard. It's still up in the air, but I agree it would look good, especially with a natural finish.

 

[eipihrellik]

what are the inlays made of dude