Using an ancient pressure system dating back centuries, the plates are glued in place.

The various segments of colored wood that make up the rosette are meticulously arranged for gluing.

First noteworthy accomplishment: the finished rosette is glued in place.

The strap is cut for the braces of the guitar's back.

Owen learns to appreciate the value of the vacuum clamp as the braces are suctioned in place.

The back braces are shaved to perfection.

More shaving: this time, the braces for the guitar's top (also called the sound board).

The finished sound board.

Owen uses the "hot pipe", a heated piece of rounded metal, to shape the sides of the instrument.

The partially bent side is checked against the "half-pattern" for adherence to the body plan.